Crispr enzyme mutations reducing off-target effects

ABSTRACT

Disclosed and claimed are mutation(s) or modification(s) of the CRISPR enzyme, for example a Cas enzyme such as a Cas9, which obtain an improvement, for instance a reduction, as to off-target effects of a CRISPR-Cas or CRISPR-enzyme or CRISPR-Cas9 system or complex containing or including such a mutated or modified Cas or CRISPR enzyme or Cas9. Methods for making and using and uses of such mutated or modified Cas or CRISPR enzyme or Cas9 and systems or complexes containing the same and products from such methods and uses are also disclosed and claimed.

CROSS REFERENCE/INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

This application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/844,528 filed Dec. 16, 2017, which is a continuation-in-part application of international patent application Serial No. PCT/US2016/038034 filed Jun. 17, 2016, which published as PCT Publication No. WO2016/205613 on Dec. 22, 2016, which claims benefit of and priority to U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/181,453, filed on Jun. 18, 2015, U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/207,312, filed Aug. 19, 2015, U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/237,360, filed Oct. 5, 2015, U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/255,256, filed Nov. 13, 2015 and U.S. Provisional application Ser. No. 62/269,876, filed Dec. 18, 2015.

The foregoing application(s) and all documents cited or referenced herein (“herein cited documents”), and all documents cited or referenced in herein cited documents, together with any manufacturer's instructions, descriptions, product specifications, and product sheets for any products mentioned herein or in any document incorporated by reference herein, are hereby incorporated herein by reference, and may be employed in the practice of the invention. More specifically, all referenced documents are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual document was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

STATEMENT AS TO FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

This invention was made with government support under grant number MH100706 and MH110049 awarded by the National Institutes of Health. The government has certain rights in the invention.

SEQUENCE LISTING

The instant application contains a Sequence Listing which has been submitted electronically in ASCII format and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Said ASCII copy, created on Jun. 17, 2016, is named 47627.99.2017_SL.txt and is 184,897 bytes in size.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR), CRISPR enzyme (e.g., Cas or Cas9), CRISPR-Cas or CRISPR system or CRISPR-Cas complex, components thereof, nucleic acid molecules, e.g., vectors, involving the same and uses of all of the foregoing, amongst other aspects.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The first publication of an enabling disclosure of how to make and use a CRISPR-Cas system in eukaryotic cells is Cong et al., Science 2013; 339:819-823 (published online 3 Jan. 2013). The first patent filing of an enabling disclosure of how to make and use a CRISPR-Cas system in eukaryotic cells is Zhang et al., U.S. Provisional application Ser. No. 61/736,527, filed 12 Dec. 2012, from which many patent applications claim priority, including those that have matured into seminal U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,999,641, 8,993,233, 8,945,839, 8,932,814, 8,906,616, 8,895,308, 8,889,418, 8,889,356, 8,871,445, 8,865,406, 8,795,965, 8,771,945 and 8,697,359.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Consistent with providing the breakthrough advances that enabled use of the CRISPR-Cas system in eukaryotic cells, the Zhang et al. laboratory of the Broad Institute recognized there remains a need for improved CRISPR enzymes for use in effecting modifications to target loci but which reduce or eliminate activity towards off-targets. There exists a pressing need for alternative and robust systems and techniques for reducing off-target activity of CRISPR enzymes when in complexed with guide RNAs. There also exists a pressing need for alternative and robust systems and techniques for increasing the activity of CRISPR enzymes when complexed with guide RNAs.

Several strategies to enhance Cas9 specificity have been developed, including reducing the amount of Cas9 in the cell, using Cas9 nickase mutants to create a pair of juxtaposed single-stranded DNA nicks, truncating the guide sequence at the 5′ end, and using a pair of catalytically-inactive Cas9 nucleases, each fused to a FokI nuclease domain.

The inventors have surprisingly determined that modifications may be made to CRISPR enzymes which confer reduced off-target activity compared to unmodified CRISPR enzymes and/or increased target activity compared to unmodified CRISPR enzymes. Thus, provided herein are improved CRISPR enzymes which may have utility in a wide range of gene modifying applications. Also provided herein are CRISPR complexes, compositions and systems, as well as methods and uses, all comprising the herein disclosed modified CRISPR enzymes. CRISPR-Cas9 is preferred, including without limitation, SaCas9, SpCas9, and orthologs.

In an aspect, there is provided an engineered CRISPR protein, wherein the protein complexes with a nucleic acid molecule comprising RNA to form a CRISPR complex, wherein when in the CRISPR complex, the nucleic acid molecule targets one or more target polynucleotide loci, the protein comprises at least one modification compared to unmodified CRISPR, and wherein the CRISPR complex comprising the modified protein has altered activity as compared to the complex comprising the unmodified CRISPR protein. CRISPR-Cas9 is preferred, including without limitation, SaCas9, SpCas9, and orthologs. CRISPR proteins include those with enzymatic activity, for example nuclease activity.

In an aspect, the altered activity of the engineered CRISPR protein comprises an altered binding property as to the nucleic acid molecule comprising RNA or the target polynucleotide loci, altered binding kinetics as to the nucleic acid molecule comprising RNA or the target polynucleotide loci, or altered binding specificity as to the nucleic acid molecule comprising RNA or the target polynucleotide loci compared to off-target polynucleotide loci.

In certain embodiments, the altered activity of the engineered CRISPR protein comprises increased targeting efficiency or decreased off-target binding. In certain embodiments, the altered activity of the engineered CRISPR protein comprises modified cleavage activity.

In certain embodiments, the altered activity comprises increased cleavage activity as to the target polynucleotide loci. In certain embodiments, the altered activity comprises decreased cleavage activity as to the target polynucleotide loci. In certain embodiments, the altered activity comprises decreased cleavage activity as to off-target polynucleotide loci. In certain embodiments, the altered activity comprises increased cleavage activity as to off-target polynucleotide loci. Accordingly, in certain embodiments, there is increased specificity for target polynucleotide loci as compared to off-target polynucleotide loci. In other embodiments, there is reduced specificity for target polynucleotide loci as compared to off-target polynucleotide loci.

In an aspect of the invention, the altered activity of the engineered CRISPR protein comprises altered helicase kinetics.

In an aspect of the invention, the engineered CRISPR protein comprises a modification that alters association of the protein with the nucleic acid molecule comprising RNA, or a strand of the target polynucleotide loci, or a strand of off-target polynucleotide loci. In an aspect of the invention, the engineered CRISPR protein comprises a modification that alters formation of the CRISPR complex.

The present invention provides:

-   -   non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme, wherein:

the enzyme complexes with guide RNA to form a CRISPR complex,

when in the CRISPR complex, the guide RNA targets one or more target polynucleotide loci and the enzyme alters the polynucleotide loci, and

the enzyme comprises at least one modification,

-   -   whereby the enzyme in the CRISPR complex has reduced capability         of modifying one or more off-target loci as compared to an         unmodified enzyme, and/or whereby the enzyme in the CRISPR         complex has increased capability of modifying the one or more         target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme.

In any such non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme, the modification may comprise modification of one or more amino acid residues of the enzyme.

In any such non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme, the modification may comprise modification of one or more amino acid residues located in a region which comprises residues which are positively charged in the unmodified enzyme.

In any such non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme, the modification may comprise modification of one or more amino acid residues which are positively charged in the unmodified enzyme.

In any such non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme, the modification may comprise modification of one or more amino acid residues which are not positively charged in the unmodified enzyme.

The modification may comprise modification of one or more amino acid residues which are uncharged in the unmodified enzyme.

The modification may comprise modification of one or more amino acid residues which are negatively charged in the unmodified enzyme.

The modification may comprise modification of one or more amino acid residues which are hydrophobic in the unmodified enzyme.

The modification may comprise modification of one or more amino acid residues which are polar in the unmodified enzyme.

In any of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme may comprise a TypeII CRISPR enzyme. The enzyme may comprise a Cas9 enzyme.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the modification may comprise modification of one or more residues located in a region between a RuvC domain and the HNH domain. The RuvC domain may comprise the RuvCII domain or the RuvCIII domain. The modification may comprise modification of one or more residues located in a groove.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the modification may comprise modification of one or more residues located outside of a region between a RuvC domain and the HNH domain, or outside of a groove.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the modification may comprise modification of one or more residues in a region which comprises:

-   -   the residues R63 to K1325 or K775 to K1325 of Streptococcus         pyogenes Cas9 (SpCas9) or a corresponding region in another Cas9         ortholog; or     -   the residues K37 to K736 of Staphylococcus aureus Cas9 (SaCas9)         or a corresponding region in another Cas9 ortholog.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the modification comprises a modification of one or more residues wherein the one or more residues comprises arginine, histidine or lysine.

In any of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme may be modified by mutation of said one or more residues.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation of said one or more residues, and wherein the mutation comprises substitution of a residue in the unmodified enzyme with an alanine residue.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation of said one or more residues, and wherein the mutation comprises substitution of a residue in the unmodified enzyme with aspartic acid or glutamic acid.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation of said one or more residues, and wherein the mutation comprises substitution of a residue in the unmodified enzyme with serine, threonine, asparagine or glutamine.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation of said one or more residues, and wherein the mutation comprises substitution of a residue in the unmodified enzyme with alanine, glycine, isoleucine, leucine, methionine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, tyrosine or valine.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation of said one or more residues, and wherein the mutation comprises substitution of a residue in the unmodified enzyme with a polar amino acid residue.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation of said one or more residues, and wherein the mutation comprises substitution of a residue in the unmodified enzyme with an amino acid residue which is not a polar amino acid residue.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation of said one or more residues, and wherein the mutation comprises substitution of a residue in the unmodified enzyme with a negatively charged amino acid residue.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation of said one or more residues, and wherein the mutation comprises substitution of a residue in the unmodified enzyme with an amino acid residue which is not a negatively charged amino acid residue.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation of said one or more residues, and wherein the mutation comprises substitution of a residue in the unmodified enzyme with an uncharged amino acid residue

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation of said one or more residues, and wherein the mutation comprises substitution of a residue in the unmodified enzyme with an amino acid residue which is not an uncharged amino acid residue.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation of said one or more residues, and wherein the mutation comprises substitution of a residue in the unmodified enzyme with a hydrophobic amino acid residue

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation of said one or more residues, and wherein the mutation comprises substitution of a residue in the unmodified enzyme with an amino acid residue which is not a hydrophobic amino acid residue.

The non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme may be SpCas9 or an ortholog of SpCas9, and wherein:

the enzyme is modified by or comprises modification, e.g., comprises, consists essentially of or consists of modification by mutation of any one of the SpCas9 or SaCas9 residues listed in any one of Tables 1-7 or a corresponding residue in the Cas9 ortholog; or the enzyme comprises, consists essentially of or consists of modification in any one (single), two (double), three (triple), four (quadruple) or more position(s) in accordance with the disclosure throughout this application, including without limitation in this Summary and/or in the Brief Description of Drawings and/or in the Detailed Description and/or in any of the Examples and/or in any of the Figures, or a corresponding residue or position in the Cas9 ortholog, e.g., an enzyme comprising, consisting essentially of or consisting of modification in any one of the Cas9 residues recited in any of this Summary and/or in the Brief Description of Drawings and/or in the Detailed Description and/or in any of the Examples and/or in any of the Figures or elsewhere herein, or a corresponding residue or position in the Cas9 ortholog. In such an enzyme, each residue may be modified by substitution with an alanine residue.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation of one or more residues including but not limited positions 12, 13, 63, 415, 610, 775, 779, 780, 810, 832, 848, 855, 861, 862, 866, 961, 968, 974, 976, 982, 983, 1000, 1003, 1014, 1047, 1060, 1107, 1108, 1109, 1114, 1129, 1240, 1289, 1296, 1297, 1300, 1311, and 1325 with reference to amino acid position numbering of SpCas9.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation and comprises one or more alanine substitutions at residues including but not limited positions 63, 415, 775, 779, 780, 810, 832, 848, 855, 861, 862, 866, 961, 968, 974, 976, 982, 983, 1000, 1003, 1014, 1047, 1060, 1107, 1108, 1109, 1114, 1129, 1240, 1289, 1296, 1297, 1300, 1311, or 1325 with reference to amino acid position numbering of SpCas9.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation and comprises one or more substitutions of K775A, E779L, Q807A, R780A, K810A, R832A, K848A, K855A, K862A, K866A, K961A, K968A, K974A, R976A, H982A, H983A, K1000A, K1014A, K1047A, K1060A, K1003A, K1107A, S1109A, H1240A, K1289A, K1296A, H1297A, K1300A, H1311A, or K1325A.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation and comprises two or more substitutions, wherein the two or more substitutions include without limitation R783A and A1322T, or R780A and K810A, or ER780A and K855A, or R780A and R976A, or K848A and R976A, or K855A and R976A, and R780A and K848A, or K810A and K848A, or K848A and K855A, or K810A and K855A, or H982A and R1060A, or H982A and R1003A, or K1003A and R1060A, or R780A and H982A, or K810A and H982A, or K848A and H982A, or K855A and H982A, or R780A and K1003A, or K810A and R1003A, or K848A and K1003A, or K848A and K1007A, or R780A and R1060A, or K810A and R1060A, or K848A and R1060A, or R780A and R1114A, or K848A and R1114A, or R63A and K855A, or R63A and H982A, or H415A and R780A, or H415A and K848A, or K848A and E1108A, or K810A and K1003A, or R780A and R1060A, K810A and R1060A, or K848A and R1060A.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation and comprises three or more substitutions, wherein the three or more substitutions include without limitation H982A, K1003A, and K1129E, or R780A, K1003A, and R1060A, or K810A, K1003A, and R1060A, or K848A, K1003A, and R1060A, or K855A, K1003A, and R1060A, or H982A, K1003A, and R1060A, or R63A, K848A, and R1060A, or T131, R63A, and K810A, or G12D, R63A, and R1060A.

In certain of the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the enzyme is modified by mutation and comprises four or more substitutions, wherein the four or more substitutions include without limitation R63A, E610G, K855A, and R1060A, or R63A, K855A, R1060A, and E610G.

In one preferred embodiment, the mutation in the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme is not a mutation listed in Table B. In a further preferred embodiment, the mutation in the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme is not R63A, K866A, H982A, H983A, K1107A, K1107A, KES1107-1109AG or KES1107-1109GG with reference to amino acid position numbering of SpCas9. In a further preferred embodiment, the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme is not an enzyme modified by a single mutation selected from R63A, K866A, H982A, H983A, K1107A and K1107A or an enzyme modified by a mutation selected from KES1107-1109AG and KES1107-1109GG with reference to amino acid position numbering of SpCas9.

In a preferred embodiment the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme is modified by mutation of one or more residues including but not limited positions 12, 13, 415, 610, 775, 779, 780, 810, 832, 848, 855, 861, 862, 961, 968, 974, 976, 1000, 1003, 1014, 1047, 1060, 1114, 1129, 1240, 1289, 1296, 1297, 1300, 1311, and 1325 with reference to amino acid position numbering of SpCas9.

In a further preferred embodiment the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme is modified by mutation and comprises one or more alanine substitutions at residues including but not limited positions 415, 775, 779, 780, 810, 832, 848, 855, 861, 862, 961, 968, 974, 976, 1000, 1003, 1014, 1047, 1060, 1114, 1129, 1240, 1289, 1296, 1297, 1300, 1311, or 1325 with reference to amino acid position numbering of SpCas9.

In a further preferred embodiment the above-described non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme is modified by mutation and comprises one or more substitutions of K775A, E779L, Q807A, R780A, K810A, R832A, K848A, K855A, K862A, K961A, K968A, K974A, R976A, K1000A, K1014A, K1047A, K1060A, K1003A, S1109A, H1240A, K1289A, K1296A, H1297A, K1300A, H1311A, or K1325A.

In any of the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes:

-   -   single mismatch may exist between the target and a corresponding         sequence of the one or more off-target loci; and/or     -   two, three or four or more mismatches may exist between the         target and a corresponding sequence of the one or more         off-target loci, and/or         -   wherein in (ii) said two, three or four or more mismatches             are contiguous.

In any of the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes the enzyme in the CRISPR complex may have reduced capability of modifying one or more off-target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme and wherein the enzyme in the CRISPR complex has increased capability of modifying the said target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme.

In any of the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, when in the CRISPR complex the relative difference of the modifying capability of the enzyme as between target and at least one off-target locus may be increased compared to the relative difference of an unmodified enzyme.

In any of the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the CRISPR enzyme may comprise one or more additional mutations, wherein the one or more additional mutations are in one or more catalytically active domains.

In such non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the CRISPR enzyme may have reduced or abolished nuclease activity compared with an enzyme lacking said one or more additional mutations.

In some such non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the CRISPR enzyme does not direct cleavage of one or other DNA strand at the location of the target sequence.

In some such non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the one or more additional mutations comprise mutation of D10 of SpCas9, E762 of SpCas9, H840 of SpCas9, N854 of SpCas9, N863 of SpCas9 and/or D986 of SpCas9 or corresponding residues of other Cas9 orthologs.

In some such non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the one or more additional mutations comprise D10A, E762A, H840A, N854A, N863A and/or D986A of SpCas9 or corresponding residues of other Cas9 orthologs.

In some such non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the one or more additional mutations comprise two additional mutations. The two additional mutations may comprise D10A SpCas9 and H840A SpCas9, or corresponding residues of another Cas9 ortholog. In some such non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the CRISPR enzyme may not direct cleavage of either DNA strand at the location of the target sequence.

Where the CRISPR enzyme comprises one or more additional mutations in one or more catalytically active domains, the one or more additional mutations may be in a catalytically active domain of the CRISPR enzyme comprising RuvCI, RuvCII or RuvCIII.

Without being bound by theory, in an aspect of the invention, the methods and mutations described provide for enhancing conformational rearrangement of Cas9 domains to positions that results in cleavage at on-target sits and avoidance of those conformational states at off-target sites. Cas9 cleaves target DNA in a series of coordinated steps. First, the PAM-interacting domain recognizes the PAM sequence 5′ of the target DNA. After PAM binding, the first 10-12 nucleotides of the target sequence (seed sequence) are sampled for sgRNA:DNA complementarity, a process dependent on DNA duplex separation. If the seed sequence nucleotides complement the sgRNA, the remainder of DNA is unwound and the full length of sgRNA hybridizes with the target DNA strand. The nt-groove between the RuvC and HNH domains stabilizes the non-targeted DNA strand and facilitates unwinding through non-specific interactions with positive charges of the DNA phosphate backbone. RNA:cDNA and Cas9:ncDNA interactions drive DNA unwinding in competition against cDNA:ncDNA rehybridization. Other cas9 domains affect the conformation of nuclease domains as well, for example linkers connecting HNH with RuvCII and RuvCIII. Accordingly, the methods and mutations provided encompass, without limitation, RuvCI, RuvCIII, RuvCIII and HNH domains and linkers. Conformational changes in Cas9 brought about by target DNA binding, including seed sequence interaction, and interactions with the target and non-target DNA strand determine whether the domains are positioned to trigger nuclease activity. Thus, the mutations and methods provided herein demonstrate and enable modifications that go beyond PAM recognition and RNA-DNA base pairing.

In an aspect, the invention provides Cas9 nucleases that comprise an improved equilibrium towards conformations associated with cleavage activity when involved in on-target interactions and/or improved equilibrium away from conformations associated with cleavage activity when involved in off-target interactions. In one aspect, the invention provides Cas9 nucleases with improved proof-reading function, i.e. a Cas9 nuclease which adopts a conformation comprising nuclease activity at an on-target site, and which conformation has increased unfavorability at an off-target site. Sternberg et al., Nature 527(7576):110-3, doi: 10.1038/nature15544, published online 28 Oct. 2015. Epub 2015 Oct. 28, used Förster resonance energy transfer FRET) experiments to detect relative orientations of the Cas9 catalytic domains when associated with on- and off-target DNA.

The invention further provides methods and mutations for modulating nuclease activity and/or specificity using modified guide RNAs. As discussed, on-target nuclease activity can be increased or decreased. Also, off-target nuclease activity can be increased or decreased. Further, there can be increased or decreased specificity as to on-target activity vs. off-target activity. Modified guide RNAs include, without limitation, truncated guide RNAs, dead guide RNAs, chemically modified guide RNAs, guide RNAs associated with functional domains, modified guide RNAs comprising functional domains, modified guide RNAs comprising aptamers, modified guide RNAs comprising adapter proteins, and guide RNAs comprising added or modified loops.

In an aspect, the invention also provides methods and mutations for modulating Cas9 binding activity and/or binding specificity. In certain embodiments Cas9 proteins lacking nuclease activity are used. In certain embodiments, modified guide RNAs are employed that promote binding but not nuclease activity of a Cas9 nuclease. In such embodiments, on-target binding can be increased or decreased. Also, in such embodiments off-target binding can be increased or decreased. Moreover, there can be increased or decreased specificity as to on-target binding vs. off-target binding.

The methods and mutations which can be employed in various combinations to increase or decrease activity and/or specificity of on-target vs. off-target activity, or increase or decrease binding and/or specificity of on-target vs. off-target binding, can be used to compensate or enhance mutations or modifications made to promote other effects. Such mutations or modifications made to promote other effects in include mutations or modification to the Cas9 and or mutation or modification made to a guide RNA. In certain embodiments, the methods and mutations are used with chemically modified guide RNAs. Examples of guide RNA chemical modifications include, without limitation, incorporation of 2′-O-methyl (M), 2′-O-methyl 3′phosphorothioate (MS), or 2′-O-methyl 3′thioPACE (MSP) at one or more terminal nucleotides. Such chemically modified guide RNAs can comprise increased stability and increased activity as compared to unmodified guide RNAs, though on-target vs. off-target specificity is not predictable. (See, Hendel, 2015, Nat Biotechnol. 33(9):985-9, doi: 10.1038/nbt.3290, published online 29 Jun. 2015). Chemically modified guide RNAs further include, without limitation, RNAs with phosphorothioate linkages and locked nucleic acid (LNA) nucleotides comprising a methylene bridge between the 2′ and 4′ carbons of the ribose ring. The methods and mutations of the invention are used to modulate Cas9 nuclease activity and/or binding with chemically modified guide RNAs.

In an aspect, the invention provides methods and mutations for modulating binding and/or binding specificity of Cas9 proteins comprising functional domains such as nucleases, transcriptional activators, transcriptional repressors, and the like. For example, a Cas9 protein can be made nuclease-null by introducing mutations such as D10A, D839A, H840A and N863A in nuclease domains RuvC and HNH. Nuclease deficient Cas9 proteins are useful for RNA-guided target sequence dependent delivery of functional domains. The invention provides methods and mutations for modulating binding of Cas9 proteins. In one embodiment, the functional domain comprises VP64, providing an RNA-guided transcription factor. In another embodiment, the functional domain comprises Fok I, providing an RNA-guided nuclease activity. Mention is made of U.S. Pat. Pub. 2014/0356959, U.S. Pat. Pub. 2014/0342456, U.S. Pat. Pub. 2015/0031132, and Mali, P. et al., 2013, Science 339(6121):823-6, doi: 10.1126/science.1232033, published online 3 Jan. 2013 and through the teachings herein the invention comprehends methods and materials of these documents applied in conjunction with the teachings herein. In certain embodiments, on-target binding is increased. In certain embodiments, off-target binding is decreased. In certain embodiments, on-target binding is decreased. In certain embodiments, off-target binding is increased. Accordingly, the invention also provides for increasing or decreasing specificity of on-target binding vs. off-target binding of functionalized Cas9 binding proteins.

The use of Cas9 as an RNA-guided binding protein is not limited to nuclease-null Cas9. Cas9 enzymes comprising nuclease activity can also function as RNA-guided binding proteins when used with certain guide RNAs. For example short guide RNAs and guide RNAs comprising nucleotides mismatched to the target can promote RNA directed Cas9 binding to a target sequence with little or no target cleavage. (See, e.g., Dahlman, 2015, Nat Biotechnol. 33(11):1159-1161, doi: 10.1038/nbt.3390, published online 5 Oct. 2015). In an aspect, the invention provides methods and mutations for modulating binding of Cas9 proteins that comprise nuclease activity. In certain embodiments, on-target binding is increased. In certain embodiments, off-target binding is decreased. In certain embodiments, on-target binding is decreased. In certain embodiments, off-target binding is increased. In certain embodiments, there is increased or decreased specificity of on-target binding vs. off-target binding. In certain embodiments, nuclease activity of guide RNA-Cas9 enzyme is also modulated.

RNA-DNA heteroduplex formation is important for cleavage activity and specificity throughout the target region, not only the seed region sequence closest to the PAM. Thus, truncated guide RNAs show reduced cleavage activity and specificity. In an aspect, the invention provides method and mutations for increasing activity and specificity of cleavage using altered guide RNAs.

The invention also demonstrates that modifications of Cas9 nuclease specificity can be made in concert with modifications to targeting range. Cas9 mutants can be designed that have increased target specificity as well as accommodating modifications in PAM recognition, for example by choosing mutations that alter PAM specificity and combining those mutations with nt-groove mutations that increase (or if desired, decrease) specificity for on-target sequences vs. off-target sequences. In one such embodiment, a PI domain residue is mutated to accommodate recognition of a desired PAM sequence while one or more nt-groove amino acids is mutated to alter target specificity. Kleinstiver involves SpCas9 and SaCas9 nucleases in which certain PI domain residues are mutated and recognize alternative PAM sequences (see Kleinstiver et al., Nature 523(7561):481-5 doi: 10.1038/nature14592, published online 22 Jun. 2015; Kleinstiver et al., Nature Biotechnology, doi: 10.1038/nbt.3404, published online 2 Nov. 2015). The Cas9 methods and modifications described herein can be used to counter loss of specificity resulting from alteration of PAM recognition, enhance gain of specificity resulting from alteration of PAM recognition, counter gain of specificity resulting from alteration of PAM recognition, or enhance loss of specificity resulting from alteration of PAM recognition.

The methods and mutations can be used with any Cas9 enzyme with altered PAM recognition. Non-limiting examples of PAMs included NGG, NNGRRT, NN[A/C/T]RRT, NGAN, NGCG, NGAG, NGNG, NGC, and NGA.

In further embodiments, the methods and mutations are used modified proteins.

In any of the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the CRISPR enzyme may comprise one or more heterologous functional domains.

The one or more heterologous functional domains may comprise one or more nuclear localization signal (NLS) domains. The one or more heterologous functional domains may comprise at least two or more NLSs.

In certain embodiments of the invention, at least one nuclear localization signal (NLS) is attached to the nucleic acid sequences encoding the Cas9 effector proteins. In preferred embodiments at least one or more C-terminal or N-terminal NLSs are attached (and hence nucleic acid molecule(s) coding for the Cas9 effector protein can include coding for NLS(s) so that the expressed product has the NLS(s) attached or connected). In a preferred embodiment a C-terminal NLS is attached for optimal expression and nuclear targeting in eukaryotic cells, preferably human cells. In a preferred embodiment, the codon optimized effector protein is SpCas9 or SaCas9 and the spacer length of the guide RNA is from 15 to 35 nt. In certain embodiments, the spacer length of the guide RNA is at least 16 nucleotides, such as at least 17 nucleotides. In certain embodiments, the spacer length is from 15 to 17 nt, from 17 to 20 nt, from 20 to 24 nt, eg. 20, 21, 22, 23, or 24 nt, from 23 to 25 nt, e.g., 23, 24, or 25 nt, from 24 to 27 nt, from 27-30 nt, from 30-35 nt, or 35 nt or longer. In certain embodiments of the invention, the codon optimized effector protein is SpCas9 or SaCas9 and the direct repeat length of the guide RNA is at least 16 nucleotides. In certain embodiments, the codon optimized effector protein is FnCpf1p and the direct repeat length of the guide RNA is from 16 to 20 nt, e.g., 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 nucleotides. In certain preferred embodiments, the direct repeat length of the guide RNA is 19 nucleotides.

The one or more heterologous functional domains comprises one or more transcriptional activation domains. A transcriptional activation domain may comprise VP64.

The one or more heterologous functional domains comprises one or more transcriptional repression domains. A transcriptional repression domain may comprise a KRAB domain or a SID domain.

The one or more heterologous functional domain may comprise one or more nuclease domains. The one or more nuclease domains may comprise Fok1.

The one or more heterologous functional domains may have one or more of the following activities: methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, nuclease activity, single-strand RNA cleavage activity, double-strand RNA cleavage activity, single-strand DNA cleavage activity, double-strand DNA cleavage activity and nucleic acid binding activity.

The at least one or more heterologous functional domains may be at or near the amino-terminus of the enzyme and/or at or near the carboxy-terminus of the enzyme.

The one or more heterologous functional domains may be fused to the CRISPR enzyme, or tethered to the CRISPR enzyme, or linked to the CRISPR enzyme by a linker moiety.

In any of the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the CRISPR enzyme may comprise a CRISPR enzyme from an organism from a genus comprising Streptococcus, Campylobacter, Nitratifractor, Staphylococcus, Parvibaculum, Roseburia, Neisseria, Gluconacetobacter, Azospirillum, Sphaerochaeta, Lactobacillus, Eubacterium or Corynebacter.

In any of the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the CRISPR enzyme may comprise a chimeric Cas9 enzyme comprising a first fragment from a first Cas9 ortholog and a second fragment from a second Cas9 ortholog, and the first and second Cas9 orthologs are different. At least one of the first and second Cas9 orthologs may comprise a Cas9 from an organism comprising Streptococcus, Campylobacter, Nitratifractor, Staphylococcus, Parvibaculum, Roseburia, Neisseria, Gluconacetobacter, Azospirillum, Sphaerochaeta, Lactobacillus, Eubacterium or Corynebacter.

In any of the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, a nucleotide sequence encoding the CRISPR enzyme may be codon optimized for expression in a eukaryote.

In any of the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes, the cell may be a eukaryotic cell or a prokaryotic cell; wherein the CRISPR complex is operable in the cell, and whereby the enzyme of the CRISPR complex has reduced capability of modifying one or more off-target loci of the cell as compared to an unmodified enzyme and/or whereby the enzyme in the CRISPR complex has increased capability of modifying the one or more target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme.

The invention also provides a non-naturally-occurring, engineered composition comprising a CRISPR-Cas complex comprising any the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme described above.

The invention also provides a non-naturally-occurring, engineered composition comprising:

a delivery system operably configured to deliver CRISPR-Cas complex components or one or more polynucleotide sequences comprising or encoding said components into a cell, and wherein said CRISPR-Cas complex is operable in the cell,

CRISPR-Cas complex components or one or more polynucleotide sequences encoding for transcription and/or translation in the cell the CRISPR-Cas complex components, comprising:

-   -   (I) the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme according to any         one of the preceding claims;     -   (II) CRISPR-Cas complex RNA comprising:     -   the guide sequence,     -   tracr mate sequence, and     -   tracr sequence,         wherein:

in the cell:

-   -   the tracr mate sequence hybridizes to the tracr sequence;     -   the CRISPR complex is formed;     -   the guide RNA targets the target polynucleotide loci and the         enzyme alters the polynucleotide loci, and     -   the enzyme in the CRISPR complex has reduced capability of         modifying one or more off-target loci as compared to an         unmodified enzyme and/or whereby the enzyme in the CRISPR         complex has increased capability of modifying the one or more         target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme.

In any such compositions, the delivery system may comprise a yeast system, a lipofection system, a microinjection system, a biolistic system, virosomes, liposomes, immunoliposomes, polycations, lipid:nucleic acid conjugates or artificial virions.

In any such compositions, the delivery system may comprise a vector system comprising one or more vectors, and wherein component (II) comprises a first regulatory element operably linked to a polynucleotide sequence which comprises the guide sequence, the tracr mate sequence and the tracr sequence, and wherein component (I) comprises a second regulatory element operably linked to a polynucleotide sequence encoding the CRISPR enzyme. In such compositions the guide RNA or CRISPR-Cas complex RNA may comprise a chimeric RNA.

In any such compositions, the delivery system may comprise a vector system comprising one or more vectors, and wherein component (II) comprises a first regulatory element operably linked to the guide sequence and the tracr mate sequence, and a third regulatory element operably linked to the tracr sequence, and wherein component (I) comprises a second regulatory element operably linked to a polynucleotide sequence encoding the CRISPR enzyme.

In any such compositions, the composition may comprise more than one guide RNA, and each guide RNA has a different target whereby there is multiplexing.

In any such compositions, the polynucleotide sequence(s) may be on one vector.

The invention also provides an engineered, non-naturally occurring Clustered Regularly Interspersed Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR associated (Cas) (CRISPR-Cas) vector system comprising one or more vectors comprising:

a) a first regulatory element operably linked to a nucleotide sequence encoding a non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme of any one of the inventive constructs herein; and b) a second regulatory element operably linked to one or more nucleotide sequences encoding one or more of the guide RNAs, the guide RNA comprising a guide sequence, a tracr sequence, and a tracr mate sequence, wherein:

components (a) and (b) are located on same or different vectors,

-   -   the tracr mate sequence hybridizes to the tracr sequence;     -   the CRISPR complex is formed;     -   the guide RNA targets the target polynucleotide loci and the         enzyme alters the polynucleotide loci, and     -   the enzyme in the CRISPR complex has reduced capability of         modifying one or more off-target loci as compared to an         unmodified enzyme and/or whereby the enzyme in the CRISPR         complex has increased capability of modifying the one or more         target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme.

In such a system, component (II) may comprise a first regulatory element operably linked to a polynucleotide sequence which comprises the guide sequence, the tracr mate sequence and the tracr sequence, and wherein component (II) may comprise a second regulatory element operably linked to a polynucleotide sequence encoding the CRISPR enzyme. In such a system, the guide RNA may comprise a chimeric RNA.

In such a system, component (I) may comprise a first regulatory element operably linked to the guide sequence and the tracr mate sequence, and a third regulatory element operably linked to the tracr sequence, and wherein component (II) may comprise a second regulatory element operably linked to a polynucleotide sequence encoding the CRISPR enzyme. Such a system may comprise more than one guide RNA, and each guide RNA has a different target whereby there is multiplexing. Components (a) and (b) may be on the same vector.

In any such systems comprising vectors, the one or more vectors may comprise one or more viral vectors, such as one or more retrovirus, lentivirus, adenovirus, adeno-associated virus or herpes simplex virus.

In any such systems comprising regulatory elements, at least one of said regulatory elements may comprise a tissue-specific promoter. The tissue-specific promoter may direct expression in a mammalian blood cell, in a mammalian liver cell or in a mammalian eye.

In any of the above-described compositions or systems the tracr sequence may comprise one or more protein-interacting RNA aptamers. The one or more aptamers may be located in the tetraloop and/or stemloop 2 of the tracr sequence. The one or more aptamers may be capapble of binding MS2 bacteriophage coat protein.

In any of the above-described compositions or systems the tracr sequence may be 30 or more nucleotides in length.

In any of the above-described compositions or systems the cell may a eukaryotic cell or a prokaryotic cell; wherein the CRISPR complex is operable in the cell, and whereby the enzyme of the CRISPR complex has reduced capability of modifying one or more off-target loci of the cell as compared to an unmodified enzyme and/or whereby the enzyme in the CRISPR complex has increased capability of modifying the one or more target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme.

The invention also provides a CRISPR complex of any of the above-described compositions or from any of the above-described systems.

The invention also provides an engineered CRISPR protein, complex, composition, system, vector, cell or cell line according to the invention for use in therapy.

The invention also provides a method of modifying a locus of interest in a cell comprising contacting the cell with any of the above-described compositions or any of the above-described systems, or wherein the cell comprises any of the above-described CRISPR complexes present within the cell. In such methods the cell may be a eukaryotic cell. In such methods, an organism may comprise the cell. In such methods the organism may not be a human or other animal. The invention also provides an engineered CRISPR protein, complex, composition, system, vector, cell or cell line according to the invention for use in modifying a locus of interest in a cell. Said modifying preferably comprises contacting the cell with any of the above-described compositions or any of the above-described systems. The invention also provides a use of an engineered CRISPR protein, complex, composition, system, vector, cell or cell line according to the invention in the preparation of a medicament for modifying a locus of interest in a cell.

Any such method may be ex vivo or in vitro.

Any such method, said modifying may comprise modulating gene expression. Said modulating gene expression may comprise activating gene expression and/or repressing gene expression.

The invention also provides an engineered CRISPR protein, complex, composition, system, vector, cell or cell line according to the invention for use in modifying a locus of interest in a cell. The invention also provides a use of an engineered CRISPR protein, complex, composition, system, vector, cell or cell line according to the invention in the preparation of a medicament for modifying a locus of interest in a cell. Said modifying preferably comprises contacting the cell with any of the above-described compositions or any of the above-described systems. The invention also provides a method of treating a disease, disorder or infection in an individual in need thereof comprising administering an effective amount of any of the compositions, systems or CRISPR complexes described above. The disease, disorder or infection may comprise a viral infection. The viral infection may be HBV.

The invention also provides an engineered CRISPR protein, complex, composition, system, vector, cell or cell line according to the invention for use in the treatment of a disease, disorder or infection in an individual in need thereof. The disease, disorder or infection may comprise a viral infection. The viral infection may be HBV. The invention also provides a use of an engineered CRISPR protein, complex, composition, system, vector, cell or cell line according to the invention in the preparation of a medicament for the treatment of a disease, disorder or infection in an individual in need thereof. The disease, disorder or infection may comprise a viral infection.

The invention also provides the use of any of the compositions, systems or CRISPR complexes described above for gene or genome editing.

The invention also provides any of the compositions, systems or CRISPR complexes described above for use as a therapeutic. The therapeutic may be for gene or genome editing, or gene therapy.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method of modifying an organism or a non-human organism by manipulation of a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest of a HSC, e.g., wherein the genomic locus of interest is associated with a mutation associated with an aberrant protein expression or with a disease condition or state, comprising:

-   -   delivering to an HSC, e.g., via contacting an HSC with a         particle containing, a non-naturally occurring or engineered         composition comprising:         -   I. a CRISPR-Cas system chimeric RNA (chiRNA) polynucleotide             sequence, comprising:             -   (a) a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target                 sequence in a HSC,             -   (b) a tracr mate sequence, and             -   (c) a tracr sequence, and         -   II. a CRISPR enzyme, optionally comprising at least one or             more nuclear localization sequences,

wherein the tracr mate sequence hybridizes to the tracr sequence and the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR complex to the target sequence, and

wherein the CRISPR complex comprises the CRISPR enzyme complexed with (1) the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence, and (2) the tracr mate sequence that is hybridized to the tracr sequence; and

the method may optionally include also delivering a HDR template, e.g., via the particle contacting the HSC containing or contacting the HSC with another particle containing, the HDR template wherein the HDR template provides expression of a normal or less aberrant form of the protein; wherein “normal” is as to wild type, and “aberrant” can be a protein expression that gives rise to a condition or disease state; and

optionally the method may include isolating or obtaining HSC from the organism or non-human organism, optionally expanding the HSC population, performing contacting of the particle(s) with the HSC to obtain a modified HSC population, optionally expanding the population of modified HSCs, and optionally administering modified HSCs to the organism or non-human organism.

The invention also provides an engineered CRISPR protein, complex, composition, system, vector, cell or cell line according to the invention for use in modifying an organism or a non-human organism by manipulation of a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest of a HSC. Said modifying preferably comprises

-   -   delivering to an HSC, e.g., via contacting an HSC with a         particle containing, a non-naturally occurring or engineered         composition comprising:         -   I. a CRISPR-Cas system chimeric RNA (chiRNA) polynucleotide             sequence, comprising:             -   (a) a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target                 sequence in a HSC,             -   (b) a tracr mate sequence, and             -   (c) a tracr sequence, and         -   II. a CRISPR enzyme, optionally comprising at least one or             more nuclear localization sequences,

wherein the tracr mate sequence hybridizes to the tracr sequence and the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR complex to the target sequence, and

wherein the CRISPR complex comprises the CRISPR enzyme complexed with (1) the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence, and (2) the tracr mate sequence that is hybridized to the tracr sequence. Said modifying further optionally includes delivering a HDR template, e.g., via the particle contacting the HSC containing or contacting the HSC with another particle containing, the HDR template wherein the HDR template provides expression of a normal or less aberrant form of the protein; wherein “normal” is as to wild type, and “aberrant” can be a protein expression that gives rise to a condition or disease state. Said modifying further optionally includes isolating or obtaining HSC from the organism or non-human organism, optionally expanding the HSC population, performing contacting of the particle(s) with the HSC to obtain a modified HSC population, optionally expanding the population of modified HSCs, and optionally administering modified HSCs to the organism or non-human organism.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method of modifying an organism or a non-human organism by manipulation of a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest of a HSC, e.g., wherein the genomic locus of interest is associated with a mutation associated with an aberrant protein expression or with a disease condition or state, comprising: delivering to an HSC, e.g., via contacting an HSC with a particle containing, a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition comprising: I. (a) a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a HSC, and (b) at least one or more tracr mate sequences, II. a CRISPR enzyme optionally having one or more NLSs, and III. a polynucleotide sequence comprising a tracr sequence, wherein the tracr mate sequence hybridizes to the tracr sequence and the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR complex to the target sequence, and wherein the CRISPR complex comprises the CRISPR enzyme complexed with (1) the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence, and (2) the tracr mate sequence that is hybridized to the tracr sequence; and

the method may optionally include also delivering a HDR template, e.g., via the particle contacting the HSC containing or contacting the HSC with another particle containing, the HDR template wherein the HDR template provides expression of a normal or less aberrant form of the protein; wherein “normal” is as to wild type, and “aberrant” can be a protein expression that gives rise to a condition or disease state; and

optionally the method may include isolating or obtaining HSC from the organism or non-human organism, optionally expanding the HSC population, performing contacting of the particle(s) with the HSC to obtain a modified HSC population, optionally expanding the population of modified HSCs, and optionally administering modified HSCs to the organism or non-human organism. The invention also provides an engineered CRISPR protein, complex, composition, system, vector, cell or cell line according to the invention for use in such modifying an organism or a non-human organism by manipulation of a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest of a HSC, e.g., wherein the genomic locus of interest is associated with a mutation associated with an aberrant protein expression or with a disease condition or state.

The delivery can be of one or more polynucleotides encoding any one or more or all of the CRISPR-complex, advantageously linked to one or more regulatory elements for in vivo expression, e.g. via particle(s), containing a vector containing the polynucleotide(s) operably linked to the regulatory element(s). Any or all of the polynucleotide sequence encoding a CRISPR enzyme, guide sequence, tracr mate sequence or tracr sequence, may be RNA. It will be appreciated that where reference is made to a polynucleotide, which is RNA and is said to ‘comprise’ a feature such a tracr mate sequence, the RNA sequence includes the feature. Where the polynucleotide is DNA and is said to comprise a feature such a tracr mate sequence, the DNA sequence is or can be transcribed into the RNA including the feature at issue. Where the feature is a protein, such as the CRISPR enzyme, the DNA or RNA sequence referred to is, or can be, translated (and in the case of DNA transcribed first).

In certain embodiments the invention provides a method of modifying an organism, e.g., mammal including human or a non-human mammal or organism by manipulation of a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest of an HSC e.g., wherein the genomic locus of interest is associated with a mutation associated with an aberrant protein expression or with a disease condition or state, comprising delivering, e.g., via contacting of a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition with the HSC, wherein the composition comprises one or more particles comprising viral, plasmid or nucleic acid molecule vector(s) (e.g. RNA) operably encoding a composition for expression thereof, wherein the composition comprises: (A) I. a first regulatory element operably linked to a CRISPR-Cas system chimeric RNA (chiRNA) polynucleotide sequence, wherein the polynucleotide sequence comprises (a) a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a eukaryotic cell, (b) a tracr mate sequence, and (c) a tracr sequence, and II. a second regulatory element operably linked to an enzyme-coding sequence encoding a CRISPR enzyme comprising at least one or more nuclear localization sequences (or optionally at least one or more nuclear localization sequences as some embodiments can involve no NLS), wherein (a), (b) and (c) are arranged in a 5′ to 3′ orientation, wherein components I and II are located on the same or different vectors of the system, wherein when transcribed, the tracr mate sequence hybridizes to the tracr sequence and the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR complex to the target sequence, and wherein the CRISPR complex comprises the CRISPR enzyme complexed with (1) the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence, and (2) the tracr mate sequence that is hybridized to the tracr sequence, or (B) a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition comprising a vector system comprising one or more vectors comprising I. a first regulatory element operably linked to (a) a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a eukaryotic cell, and (b) at least one or more tracr mate sequences, II. a second regulatory element operably linked to an enzyme-coding sequence encoding a CRISPR enzyme, and III. a third regulatory element operably linked to a tracr sequence, wherein components I, II and III are located on the same or different vectors of the system, wherein when transcribed, the tracr mate sequence hybridizes to the tracr sequence and the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR complex to the target sequence, and wherein the CRISPR complex comprises the CRISPR enzyme complexed with (1) the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence, and (2) the tracr mate sequence that is hybridized to the tracr sequence; the method may optionally include also delivering a HDR template, e.g., via the particle contacting the HSC containing or contacting the HSC with another particle containing, the HDR template wherein the HDR template provides expression of a normal or less aberrant form of the protein; wherein “normal” is as to wild type, and “aberrant” can be a protein expression that gives rise to a condition or disease state; and optionally the method may include isolating or obtaining HSC from the organism or non-human organism, optionally expanding the HSC population, performing contacting of the particle(s) with the HSC to obtain a modified HSC population, optionally expanding the population of modified HSCs, and optionally administering modified HSCs to the organism or non-human organism. In some embodiments, components I, II and III are located on the same vector. In other embodiments, components I and II are located on the same vector, while component III is located on another vector. In other embodiments, components I and III are located on the same vector, while component II is located on another vector. In other embodiments, components II and III are located on the same vector, while component I is located on another vector. In other embodiments, each of components I, II and III is located on different vectors. The invention also provides a viral or plasmid vector system as described herein. The invention also provides an engineered CRISPR protein, complex, composition, system, vector, cell or cell line according to the invention for use in such modifying an organism, e.g., mammal including human or a non-human mammal or organism by manipulation of a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest of an HSC e.g., wherein the genomic locus of interest is associated with a mutation associated with an aberrant protein expression or with a disease condition or state, comprising delivering, e.g., via contacting of a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition with the HSC.

By manipulation of a target sequence, Applicants also mean the epigenetic manipulation of a target sequence. This may be of the chromatin state of a target sequence, such as by modification of the methylation state of the target sequence (i.e. addition or removal of methylation or methylation patterns or CpG islands), histone modification, increasing or reducing accessibility to the target sequence, or by promoting 3D folding. It will be appreciated that where reference is made to a method of modifying an organism or mammal including human or a non-human mammal or organism by manipulation of a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest, this may apply to the organism (or mammal) as a whole or just a single cell or population of cells from that organism (if the organism is multicellular). In the case of humans, for instance, Applicants envisage, inter alia, a single cell or a population of cells and these may preferably be modified ex vivo and then re-introduced. In this case, a biopsy or other tissue or biological fluid sample may be necessary. Stem cells are also particularly preferred in this regard. But, of course, in vivo embodiments are also envisaged. And the invention is especially advantageous as to HSCs.

The invention in some embodiments comprehends a method of modifying an organism or a non-human organism by manipulation of a first and a second target sequence on opposite strands of a DNA duplex in a genomic locus of interest in a HSC e.g., wherein the genomic locus of interest is associated with a mutation associated with an aberrant protein expression or with a disease condition or state, comprising delivering, e.g., by contacting HSCs with particle(s) comprising a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition comprising:

-   -   I. a first CRISPR-Cas system chimeric RNA (chiRNA)         polynucleotide sequence, wherein the first polynucleotide         sequence comprises:         -   (a) a first guide sequence capable of hybridizing to the             first target sequence,         -   (b) a first tracr mate sequence, and         -   (c) a first tracr sequence,     -   II. a second CRISPR-Cas system chiRNA polynucleotide sequence,         wherein the second polynucleotide sequence comprises:         -   (a) a second guide sequence capable of hybridizing to the             second target sequence,         -   (b) a second tracr mate sequence, and         -   (c) a second tracr sequence, and     -   III. a polynucleotide sequence encoding a CRISPR enzyme         comprising at least one or more nuclear localization sequences         and comprising one or more mutations, wherein (a), (b) and (c)         are arranged in a 5′ to 3′ orientation; or     -   IV. expression product(s) of one or more of I. to III., e.g.,         the first and the second tracr mate sequence, the CRISPR enzyme;

wherein when transcribed, the first and the second tracr mate sequence hybridize to the first and second tracr sequence respectively and the first and the second guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a first and a second CRISPR complex to the first and second target sequences respectively, wherein the first CRISPR complex comprises the CRISPR enzyme complexed with (1) the first guide sequence that is hybridized to the first target sequence, and (2) the first tracr mate sequence that is hybridized to the first tracr sequence, wherein the second CRISPR complex comprises the CRISPR enzyme complexed with (1) the second guide sequence that is hybridized to the second target sequence, and (2) the second tracr mate sequence that is hybridized to the second tracr sequence, wherein the polynucleotide sequence encoding a CRISPR enzyme is DNA or RNA, and wherein the first guide sequence directs cleavage of one strand of the DNA duplex near the first target sequence and the second guide sequence directs cleavage of the other strand near the second target sequence inducing a double strand break, thereby modifying the organism or the non-human organism; and the method may optionally include also delivering a HDR template, e.g., via the particle contacting the HSC containing or contacting the HSC with another particle containing, the HDR template wherein the HDR template provides expression of a normal or less aberrant form of the protein; wherein “normal” is as to wild type, and “aberrant” can be a protein expression that gives rise to a condition or disease state; and optionally the method may include isolating or obtaining HSC from the organism or non-human organism, optionally expanding the HSC population, performing contacting of the particle(s) with the HSC to obtain a modified HSC population, optionally expanding the population of modified HSCs, and optionally administering modified HSCs to the organism or non-human organism. In some methods of the invention any or all of the polynucleotide sequence encoding the CRISPR enzyme, the first and the second guide sequence, the first and the second tracr mate sequence or the first and the second tracr sequence, is/are RNA. In further embodiments of the invention the polynucleotides encoding the sequence encoding the CRISPR enzyme, the first and the second guide sequence, the first and the second tracr mate sequence or the first and the second tracr sequence, is/are RNA and are delivered via liposomes, nanoparticles, exosomes, microvesicles, or a gene-gun; but, it is advantageous that the delivery is via a particle. In certain embodiments of the invention, the first and second tracr mate sequence share 100% identity and/or the first and second tracr sequence share 100% identity. In some embodiments, the polynucleotides may be comprised within a vector system comprising one or more vectors. In preferred embodiments of the invention the CRISPR enzyme is a Cas9 enzyme, e.g. SpCas9. In an aspect of the invention the CRISPR enzyme comprises one or more mutations in a catalytic domain, wherein the one or more mutations, with reference to SpCas9 are selected from the group consisting of D10A, E762A, H840A, N854A, N863A and D986A, e.g., a D10A mutation. In preferred embodiments, the first CRISPR enzyme has one or more mutations such that the enzyme is a complementary strand nicking enzyme, and the second CRISPR enzyme has one or more mutations such that the enzyme is a non-complementary strand nicking enzyme. Alternatively the first enzyme may be a non-complementary strand nicking enzyme, and the second enzyme may be a complementary strand nicking enzyme. In preferred methods of the invention the first guide sequence directing cleavage of one strand of the DNA duplex near the first target sequence and the second guide sequence directing cleavage of the other strand near the second target sequence results in a 5′ overhang. In embodiments of the invention the 5′ overhang is at most 200 base pairs, preferably at most 100 base pairs, or more preferably at most 50 base pairs. In embodiments of the invention the 5′ overhang is at least 26 base pairs, preferably at least 30 base pairs or more preferably 34-50 base pairs. The invention also provides an engineered CRISPR protein, complex, composition, system, vector, cell or cell line according to the invention for use in such modifying an organism or a non-human organism by manipulation of a first and a second target sequence on opposite strands of a DNA duplex in a genomic locus of interest in a HSC e.g., wherein the genomic locus of interest is associated with a mutation associated with an aberrant protein expression or with a disease condition or state, comprising delivering, e.g., by contacting HSCs with particle(s) comprising a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition.

The invention in some embodiments comprehends a method of modifying an organism or a non-human organism by manipulation of a first and a second target sequence on opposite strands of a DNA duplex in a genomic locus of interest in a HSC e.g., wherein the genomic locus of interest is associated with a mutation associated with an aberrant protein expression or with a disease condition or state, comprising delivering, e.g., by contacting HSCs with particle(s) comprising a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition comprising:

-   -   I. a first regulatory element operably linked to         -   (a) a first guide sequence capable of hybridizing to the             first target sequence, and         -   (b) at least one or more tracr mate sequences,     -   II. a second regulatory element operably linked to         -   (a) a second guide sequence capable of hybridizing to the             second target sequence, and         -   (b) at least one or more tracr mate sequences,     -   III. a third regulatory element operably linked to an         enzyme-coding sequence encoding a CRISPR enzyme, and     -   IV. a fourth regulatory element operably linked to a tracr         sequence,     -   V. expression product(s) of one or more of I. to IV., e.g., the         first and the second tracr mate sequence, the CRISPR enzyme;         wherein components I, II, III and IV are located on the same or         different vectors of the system, when transcribed, the tracr         mate sequence hybridizes to the tracr sequence and the first and         the second guide sequence direct sequence-specific binding of a         first and a second CRISPR complex to the first and second target         sequences respectively, wherein the first CRISPR complex         comprises the CRISPR enzyme complexed with (1) the first guide         sequence that is hybridized to the first target sequence,         and (2) the tracr mate sequence that is hybridized to the tracr         sequence, wherein the second CRISPR complex comprises the CRISPR         enzyme complexed with (1) the second guide sequence that is         hybridized to the second target sequence, and (2) the tracr mate         sequence that is hybridized to the tracr sequence, wherein the         polynucleotide sequence encoding a CRISPR enzyme is DNA or RNA,         and wherein the first guide sequence directs cleavage of one         strand of the DNA duplex near the first target sequence and the         second guide sequence directs cleavage of the other strand near         the second target sequence inducing a double strand break,         thereby modifying the organism or the non-human organism; and         the method may optionally include also delivering a HDR         template, e.g., via the particle contacting the HSC containing         or contacting the HSC with another particle containing, the HDR         template wherein the HDR template provides expression of a         normal or less aberrant form of the protein; wherein “normal” is         as to wild type, and “aberrant” can be a protein expression that         gives rise to a condition or disease state; and optionally the         method may include isolating or obtaining HSC from the organism         or non-human organism, optionally expanding the HSC population,         performing contacting of the particle(s) with the HSC to obtain         a modified HSC population, optionally expanding the population         of modified HSCs, and optionally administering modified HSCs to         the organism or non-human organism. The invention also provides         an engineered CRISPR protein, complex, composition, system,         vector, cell or cell line according to the invention for use in         such modifying an organism or a non-human organism by         manipulation of a first and a second target sequence on opposite         strands of a DNA duplex in a genomic locus of interest in a HSC         e.g., wherein the genomic locus of interest is associated with a         mutation associated with an aberrant protein expression or with         a disease condition or state, comprising delivering, e.g., by         contacting HSCs with particle(s) comprising a non-naturally         occurring or engineered composition.

The invention also provides a vector system as described herein. The system may comprise one, two, three or four different vectors. Components I, II, III and IV may thus be located on one, two, three or four different vectors, and all combinations for possible locations of the components are herein envisaged, for example: components I, II, III and IV can be located on the same vector; components I, II, III and IV can each be located on different vectors; components I, II, II I and IV may be located on a total of two or three different vectors, with all combinations of locations envisaged, etc. In some methods of the invention any or all of the polynucleotide sequence encoding the CRISPR enzyme, the first and the second guide sequence, the first and the second tracr mate sequence or the first and the second tracr sequence, is/are RNA. In further embodiments of the invention the first and second tracr mate sequence share 100% identity and/or the first and second tracr sequence share 100% identity. In preferred embodiments of the invention the CRISPR enzyme is a Cas9 enzyme, e.g. SpCas9. In an aspect of the invention the CRISPR enzyme comprises one or more mutations in a catalytic domain, wherein the one or more mutations with reference to SpCas9 are selected from the group consisting of D10A, E762A, H840A, N854A, N863A and D986A; e.g., D10A mutation. In preferred embodiments, the first CRISPR enzyme has one or more mutations such that the enzyme is a complementary strand nicking enzyme, and the second CRISPR enzyme has one or more mutations such that the enzyme is a non-complementary strand nicking enzyme. Alternatively the first enzyme may be a non-complementary strand nicking enzyme, and the second enzyme may be a complementary strand nicking enzyme. In a further embodiment of the invention, one or more of the viral vectors are delivered via liposomes, nanoparticles, exosomes, microvesicles, or a gene-gun; but, particle delivery is advantageous.

In preferred methods of the invention the first guide sequence directing cleavage of one strand of the DNA duplex near the first target sequence and the second guide sequence directing cleavage of other strand near the second target sequence results in a 5′ overhang. In embodiments of the invention the 5′ overhang is at most 200 base pairs, preferably at most 100 base pairs, or more preferably at most 50 base pairs. In embodiments of the invention the 5′ overhang is at least 26 base pairs, preferably at least 30 base pairs or more preferably 34-50 base pairs.

The invention in some embodiments comprehends a method of modifying a genomic locus of interest in HSC e.g., wherein the genomic locus of interest is associated with a mutation associated with an aberrant protein expression or with a disease condition or state, by introducing into the HSC, e.g., by contacting HSCs with particle(s) comprising, a Cas protein having one or more mutations and two guide RNAs that target a first strand and a second strand of the DNA molecule respectively in the HSC, whereby the guide RNAs target the DNA molecule and the Cas protein nicks each of the first strand and the second strand of the DNA molecule, whereby a target in the HSC is altered; and, wherein the Cas protein and the two guide RNAs do not naturally occur together and the method may optionally include also delivering a HDR template, e.g., via the particle contacting the HSC containing or contacting the HSC with another particle containing, the HDR template wherein the HDR template provides expression of a normal or less aberrant form of the protein; wherein “normal” is as to wild type, and “aberrant” can be a protein expression that gives rise to a condition or disease state; and optionally the method may include isolating or obtaining HSC from the organism or non-human organism, optionally expanding the HSC population, performing contacting of the particle(s) with the HSC to obtain a modified HSC population, optionally expanding the population of modified HSCs, and optionally administering modified HSCs to the organism or non-human organism. In preferred methods of the invention the Cas protein nicking each of the first strand and the second strand of the DNA molecule results in a 5′ overhang. In embodiments of the invention the 5′ overhang is at most 200 base pairs, preferably at most 100 base pairs, or more preferably at most 50 base pairs. In embodiments of the invention the 5′ overhang is at least 26 base pairs, preferably at least 30 base pairs or more preferably 34-50 base pairs. Embodiments of the invention also comprehend the guide RNAs comprising a guide sequence fused to a tracr mate sequence and a tracr sequence. In an aspect of the invention the Cas protein is codon optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell, preferably a mammalian cell or a human cell. In further embodiments of the invention the Cas protein is a type II CRISPR-Cas protein, e.g. a Cas 9 protein. In a highly preferred embodiment the Cas protein is a Cas9 protein, e.g. SpCas9 or SaCas9. In aspects of the invention the Cas protein has one or more mutations in respect of SpCas9 selected from the group consisting of D10A, E762A, H840A, N854A, N863A and D986A; e.g., a D10A mutation. Aspects of the invention relate to the expression of a gene product being decreased or a template polynucleotide being further introduced into the DNA molecule encoding the gene product or an intervening sequence being excised precisely by allowing the two 5′ overhangs to reanneal and ligate or the activity or function of the gene product being altered or the expression of the gene product being increased. In an embodiment of the invention, the gene product is a protein.

The invention in some embodiments comprehends a method of modifying a genomic locus of interest in HSC e.g., wherein the genomic locus of interest is associated with a mutation associated with an aberrant protein expression or with a disease condition or state, by introducing into the HSC, e.g., by contacting HSCs with particle(s) comprising,

-   -   a) a first regulatory element operably linked to each of two         CRISPR-Cas system guide RNAs that target a first strand and a         second strand respectively of a double stranded DNA molecule of         the HSC, and     -   b) a second regulatory element operably linked to a Cas protein,         or     -   c) expression product(s) of a) or b),         wherein components (a) and (b) are located on same or different         vectors of the system, whereby the guide RNAs target the DNA         molecule of the HSC and the Cas protein nicks each of the first         strand and the second strand of the DNA molecule of the HSC;         and, wherein the Cas protein and the two guide RNAs do not         naturally occur together; and the method may optionally include         also delivering a HDR template, e.g., via the particle         contacting the HSC containing or contacting the HSC with another         particle containing, the HDR template wherein the HDR template         provides expression of a normal or less aberrant form of the         protein; wherein “normal” is as to wild type, and “aberrant” can         be a protein expression that gives rise to a condition or         disease state; and optionally the method may include isolating         or obtaining HSC from the organism or non-human organism,         optionally expanding the HSC population, performing contacting         of the particle(s) with the HSC to obtain a modified HSC         population, optionally expanding the population of modified         HSCs, and optionally administering modified HSCs to the organism         or non-human organism. In aspects of the invention the guide         RNAs may comprise a guide sequence fused to a tracr mate         sequence and a tracr sequence. In an embodiment of the invention         the Cas protein is a type II CRISPR-Cas protein. In an aspect of         the invention the Cas protein is codon optimized for expression         in a eukaryotic cell, preferably a mammalian cell or a human         cell. In further embodiments of the invention the Cas protein is         a type II CRISPR-Cas protein, e.g. a Cas 9 protein. In a highly         preferred embodiment the Cas protein is a Cas9 protein, e.g.         SpCas9 or SaCas9. In aspects of the invention the Cas protein         has one or more mutations with reference to SpCas9 selected from         the group consisting of D10A, E762A, H840A, N854A, N863A and         D986A; e.g., the D10A mutation. Aspects of the invention relate         to the expression of a gene product being decreased or a         template polynucleotide being further introduced into the DNA         molecule encoding the gene product or an intervening sequence         being excised precisely by allowing the two 5′ overhangs to         reanneal and ligate or the activity or function of the gene         product being altered or the expression of the gene product         being increased. In an embodiment of the invention, the gene         product is a protein. In preferred embodiments of the invention         the vectors of the system are viral vectors. In a further         embodiment, the vectors of the system are delivered via         liposomes, nanoparticles, exosomes, microvesicles, or a         gene-gun; and particles are preferred. In one aspect, the         invention provides a method of modifying a target polynucleotide         in a HSC. In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a         CRISPR complex to bind to the target polynucleotide to effect         cleavage of said target polynucleotide thereby modifying the         target polynucleotide, wherein the CRISPR complex comprises a         CRISPR enzyme complexed with a guide sequence hybridized to a         target sequence within said target polynucleotide, wherein said         guide sequence is linked to a tracr mate sequence which in turn         hybridizes to a tracr sequence. In some embodiments, said         cleavage comprises cleaving one or two strands at the location         of the target sequence by said CRISPR enzyme. In some         embodiments, said cleavage results in decreased transcription of         a target gene. In some embodiments, the method further comprises         repairing said cleaved target polynucleotide by homologous         recombination with an exogenous template polynucleotide, wherein         said repair results in a mutation comprising an insertion,         deletion, or substitution of one or more nucleotides of said         target polynucleotide. In some embodiments, said mutation         results in one or more amino acid changes in a protein expressed         from a gene comprising the target sequence. In some embodiments,         the method further comprises delivering one or more vectors or         expression product(s) thereof, e.g., via particle(s), to said         HSC, wherein the one or more vectors drive expression of one or         more of: the CRISPR enzyme, the guide sequence linked to the         tracr mate sequence, and the tracr sequence. In some         embodiments, said vectors are delivered to the HSC in a subject.         In some embodiments, said modifying takes place in said HSC in a         cell culture. In some embodiments, the method further comprises         isolating said HSC from a subject prior to said modifying. In         some embodiments, the method further comprises returning said         HSC and/or cells derived therefrom to said subject.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method of generating a HSC comprising a mutated disease gene. In some embodiments, a disease gene is any gene associated with an increase in the risk of having or developing a disease. In some embodiments, the method comprises (a) introducing one or more vectors or expression product(s) thereof, e.g., via particle(s), into a HSC, wherein the one or more vectors drive expression of one or more of: a CRISPR enzyme, a guide sequence linked to a tracr mate sequence, and a tracr sequence; and (b) allowing a CRISPR complex to bind to a target polynucleotide to effect cleavage of the target polynucleotide within said disease gene, wherein the CRISPR complex comprises the CRISPR enzyme complexed with (1) the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence within the target polynucleotide, and (2) the tracr mate sequence that is hybridized to the tracr sequence, thereby generating a HSC comprising a mutated disease gene. In some embodiments, said cleavage comprises cleaving one or two strands at the location of the target sequence by said CRISPR enzyme. In some embodiments, said cleavage results in decreased transcription of a target gene. In some embodiments, the method further comprises repairing said cleaved target polynucleotide by homologous recombination with an exogenous template polynucleotide, wherein said repair results in a mutation comprising an insertion, deletion, or substitution of one or more nucleotides of said target polynucleotide. In some embodiments, said mutation results in one or more amino acid changes in a protein expression from a gene comprising the target sequence. In some embodiments the modified HSC is administered to an animal to thereby generate an animal model.

In one aspect, the invention provides for methods of modifying a target polynucleotide in a HSC. Also provided is an engineered CRISPR protein, complex, composition, system, vector, cell or cell line according to the invention for use in modifying a target polynucleotide in a HSC. In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a CRISPR complex to bind to the target polynucleotide to effect cleavage of said target polynucleotide thereby modifying the target polynucleotide, wherein the CRISPR complex comprises a CRISPR enzyme complexed with a guide sequence hybridized to a target sequence within said target polynucleotide, wherein said guide sequence is linked to a tracr mate sequence which in turn hybridizes to a tracr sequence. In other embodiments, this invention provides a method of modifying expression of a polynucleotide in a eukaryotic cell that arises from an HSC. The method comprises increasing or decreasing expression of a target polynucleotide by using a CRISPR complex that binds to the polynucleotide in the HSC; advantageously the CRISPR complex is delivered via particle(s).

In some methods, a target polynucleotide can be inactivated to effect the modification of the expression in a HSC. For example, upon the binding of a CRISPR complex to a target sequence in a cell, the target polynucleotide is inactivated such that the sequence is not transcribed, the coded protein is not produced, or the sequence does not function as the wild-type sequence does.

In some embodiments the RNA of the CRISPR-Cas system, e.g., the guide or sgRNA, can be modified; for instance to include an aptamer or a functional domain. An aptamer is a synthetic oligonucleotide that binds to a specific target molecule; for instance a nucleic acid molecule that has been engineered through repeated rounds of in vitro selection or SELEX (systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment) to bind to various molecular targets such as small molecules, proteins, nucleic acids, and even cells, tissues and organisms. Aptamers are useful in that they offer molecular recognition properties that rival that of antibodies. In addition to their discriminate recognition, aptamers offer advantages over antibodies including that they elicit little or no immunogenicity in therapeutic applications. Accordingly, in the practice of the invention, either or both of the enzyme or the RNA can include a functional domain.

In some embodiments, the functional domain is a transcriptional activation domain, preferably VP64. In some embodiments, the functional domain is a transcription repression domain, preferably KRAB. In some embodiments, the transcription repression domain is SID, or concatemers of SID (eg and small SID4×). In some embodiments, the functional domain is an epigenetic modifying domain, such that an epigenetic modifying enzyme is provided. In some embodiments, the functional domain is an activation domain, which may be the P65 activation domain. In some embodiments, the functional domain comprises nuclease activity. In one such embodiment, the functional domain comprises Fok1.

The invention also provides an in vitro or ex vivo cell comprising any of the modified CRISPR enzymes, compositions, systems or complexes described above, or from any of the methods described above. The cell may be a eukaryotic cell or a prokaryotic cell. The invention also provides progeny of such cells. The invention also provides a product of any such cell or of any such progeny, wherein the product is a product of the said one or more target loci as modified by the modified CRISPR enzyme of the CRISPR complex. The product may be a peptide, polypeptide or protein. Some such products may be modified by the modified CRISPR enzyme of the CRISPR complex. In some such modified products, the product of the target locus is physically distinct from the product of the said target locus which has not been modified by the said modified CRISPR enzyme.

The invention also provides a polynucleotide molecule comprising a polynucleotide sequence encoding any of the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes described above.

Any such polynucleotide may further comprise one or more regulatory elements which are operably linked to the polynucleotide sequence encoding the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme.

In any such polynucleotide which comprises one or more regulatory elements, the one or more regulatory elements may be operably configured for expression of the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme in a eukaryotic cell. The eukaryotic cell may be a human cell. The eukaryotic cell may be a rodent cell, optionally a mouse cell. The eukaryotic cell may be a yeast cell. The eukaryotic cell may be a chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell. The eukaryotic cell may be an insect cell.

In any such polynucleotide which comprises one or more regulatory elements, the one or more regulatory elements may be operably configured for expression of the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme in a prokaryotic cell.

In any such polynucleotide which comprises one or more regulatory elements, the one or more regulatory elements may operably configured for expression of the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme in an in vitro system.

The invention also provides an expression vector comprising any of the above-described polynucleotide molecules. The invention also provides such polynucleotide molecule(s), for instance such polynucleotide molecules operably configured to express the protein and/or the nucleic acid component(s), as well as such vector(s).

The invention further provides for a method of making mutations to a Cas9 or a mutated or modified Cas9 that is an ortholog of SaCas9 and/or SpCas9 comprising ascertaining amino acid(s) in that ortholog may be in close proximity or may touch a nucleic acid molecule, e.g., DNA, RNA, sgRNA, etc., and/or amino acid(s) analogous or corresponding to herein-identified amino acid(s) in SaCas9 and/or SpCas9 for modification and/or mutation, and synthesizing or preparing or expressing the ortholog comprising, consisting of or consisting essentially of modification(s) and/or mutation(s) or mutating as herein-discussed, e.g., modifying, e.g., changing or mutating, a neutral amino acid to a charged, e.g., positively charged, amino acid, e.g., from alanine to, e.g., lysine. The so modified ortholog can be used in CRISPR-Cas systems; and nucleic acid molecule(s) expressing it may be used in vector or other delivery systems that deliver molecules or encoding CRISPR-Cas system components as herein-discussed.

The invention also provides an engineered CRISPR protein, complex, composition, system, vector, cell or cell line according to the invention for use in making mutations to a Cas9 or a mutated or modified Cas9 that is an ortholog of SaCas9 and/or SpCas9 comprising ascertaining amino acid(s) in that ortholog may be in close proximity or may touch a nucleic acid molecule, e.g., DNA, RNA, sgRNA, and/or amino acid(s) analogous or corresponding to herein-identified amino acid(s) in SaCas9 and/or SpCas9 for modification and/or mutation, and synthesizing or preparing or expressing the ortholog comprising, consisting of or consisting essentially of modification(s) and/or mutation(s) or mutating as herein-discussed, e.g., modifying, e.g., changing or mutating, a neutral amino acid to a charged, e.g., positively charged, amino acid, e.g., from alanine to e.g., lysine.

In an aspect, the invention provides efficient on-target activity and minimizes off target activity. In an aspect, the invention provides efficient on-target cleavage by a CRISPR protein and minimizes off-target cleavage by the CRISPR protein. In an aspect, the invention provides guide specific binding of a CRISPR protein at a gene locus without DNA cleavage. In an aspect, the invention provides efficient guide directed on-target binding of a CRISPR protein at a gene locus and minimizes off-target binding of the CRISPR protein. Accordingly, in an aspect, the invention provides target-specific gene regulation. In an aspect, the invention provides guide specific binding of a CRISPR enzyme at a gene locus without DNA cleavage. Accordingly, in an aspect, the invention provides for cleavage at one gene locus and gene regulation at a different gene locus using a single CRISPR enzyme. In an aspect, the invention provides orthogonal activation and/or inhibition and/or cleavage of multiple targets using one or more CRISPR protein and/or enzyme.

In another aspect, the present invention provides for a method of functional screening of genes in a genome in a pool of cells ex vivo or in vivo comprising the administration or expression of a library comprising a plurality of CRISPR-Cas system guide RNAs (sgRNAs) and wherein the screening further comprises use of a CRISPR enzyme, wherein the CRISPR complex is modified to comprise a heterologous functional domain. In an aspect the invention provides a method for screening a genome comprising the administration to a host or expression in a host in vivo of a library. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed further comprising an activator administered to the host or expressed in the host. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed wherein the activator is attached to a CRISPR protein. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed wherein the activator is attached to the N terminus or the C terminus of the CRISPR protein. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed wherein the activator is attached to a sgRNA loop. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed further comprising a repressor administered to the host or expressed in the host. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed, wherein the screening comprises affecting and detecting gene activation, gene inhibition, or cleavage in the locus.

In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed, wherein the host is a eukaryotic cell. In an aspect the invention provides a method or use as herein discussed, wherein the host is a mammalian cell. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed, wherein the host is a non-human eukaryote cell. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed, wherein the non-human eukaryote cell is a non-human mammal cell. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed, wherein the non-human mammal cell may be including, but not limited to, primate bovine, ovine, procine, canine, rodent, Leporidae such as monkey, cow, sheep, pig, dog, rabbit, rat or mouse cell. In an aspect the invention provides a method or use as herein discussed, the cell may be a non-mammalian eukaryotic cell such as poultry bird (e.g., chicken), vertebrate fish (e.g., salmon) or shellfish (e.g., oyster, claim, lobster, shrimp) cell. In an aspect the invention provides a method or use as herein discussed, the non-human eukaryote cell is a plant cell. The plant cell may be of a monocot or dicot or of a crop or grain plant such as cassava, corn, sorghum, soybean, wheat, oat or rice. The plant cell may also be of an algae, tree or production plant, fruit or vegetable (e.g., trees such as citrus trees, e.g., orange, grapefruit or lemon trees; peach or nectarine trees; apple or pear trees; nut trees such as almond or walnut or pistachio trees; nightshade plants; plants of the genus Brassica; plants of the genus Lactuca; plants of the genus Spinacia; plants of the genus Capsicum; cotton, tobacco, asparagus, carrot, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, tomato, eggplant, pepper, lettuce, spinach, strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, blackberry, grape, coffee, cocoa, etc).

In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed comprising the delivery of the CRISPR-Cas complexes or component(s) thereof or nucleic acid molecule(s) coding therefor, wherein said nucleic acid molecule(s) are operatively linked to regulatory sequence(s) and expressed in vivo. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed wherein the expressing in vivo is via a lentivirus, an adenovirus, or an AAV. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed wherein the delivery is via a particle, a nanoparticle, a lipid or a cell penetrating peptide (CPP).

In an aspect the invention provides a pair of CRISPR-Cas complexes, each comprising a guide RNA (sgRNA) comprising a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell, wherein at least one loop of each sgRNA is modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins, and wherein the adaptor protein is associated with one or more functional domains, wherein each sgRNA of each CRISPR-Cas comprises a functional domain having a DNA cleavage activity. In an aspect the invention provides a paired CRISPR-Cas complexes as herein-discussed, wherein the DNA cleavage activity is due to a Fok1 nuclease.

In an aspect the invention provides a method for cutting a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest comprising delivery to a cell of the CRISPR-Cas complexes or component(s) thereof or nucleic acid molecule(s) coding therefor, wherein said nucleic acid molecule(s) are operatively linked to regulatory sequence(s) and expressed in vivo. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein-discussed wherein the delivery is via a lentivirus, an adenovirus, or an AAV. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein-discussed or paired CRISPR-Cas complexes as herein-discussed wherein the target sequence for a first complex of the pair is on a first strand of double stranded DNA and the target sequence for a second complex of the pair is on a second strand of double stranded DNA. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein-discussed or paired CRISPR-Cas complexes as herein-discussed wherein the target sequences of the first and second complexes are in proximity to each other such that the DNA is cut in a manner that facilitates homology directed repair. In an aspect a herein method can further include introducing into the cell template DNA. In an aspect a herein method or herein paired CRISPR-Cas complexes can involve wherein each CRISPR-Cas complex has a CRISPR enzyme that is mutated such that it has no more than about 5% of the nuclease activity of the CRISPR enzyme that is not mutated.

In an aspect the invention provides a library, method or complex as herein-discussed wherein the sgRNA is modified to have at least one non-coding functional loop, e.g., wherein the at least one non-coding functional loop is repressive; for instance, wherein the at least one non-coding functional loop comprises Alu.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method for altering or modifying expression of a gene product. The said method may comprise introducing into a cell containing and expressing a DNA molecule encoding the gene product an engineered, non-naturally occurring CRISPR-Cas system comprising a Cas protein and guide RNA that targets the DNA molecule, whereby the guide RNA targets the DNA molecule encoding the gene product and the Cas protein cleaves the DNA molecule encoding the gene product, whereby expression of the gene product is altered; and, wherein the Cas protein and the guide RNA do not naturally occur together. The invention comprehends the guide RNA comprising a guide sequence fused to a tracr sequence. The invention further comprehends the Cas protein being codon optimized for expression in a Eukaryotic cell. In a preferred embodiment the Eukaryotic cell is a mammalian cell and in a more preferred embodiment the mammalian cell is a human cell. In a further embodiment of the invention, the expression of the gene product is decreased.

The invention also provides an engineered CRISPR protein, complex, composition, system, vector, cell or cell line as defined herein for use in altering the expression of a genomic locus of interest in a mammalian cell. The invention also provides a use of an engineered CRISPR protein, complex, composition, system, vector, cell or cell line for the preparation of a medicament for altering the expression of a genomic locus of interest in a mammalian cell. Said altering preferably comprises contacting the cell with an engineered CRISPR protein, complex, composition, system, vector, cell or cell line of the invention and thereby delivering a vector and allowing the CRISPR-Cas complex to form and bind to target. Said altering further preferably comprises determining if the expression of the genomic locus has been altered.

In an aspect, the invention provides altered cells and progeny of those cells, as well as products made by the cells. CRISPR-Cas9 proteins and systems of the invention are used to produce cells comprising a modified target locus. In some embodiments, the method may comprise allowing a nucleic acid-targeting complex to bind to the target DNA or RNA to effect cleavage of said target DNA or RNA thereby modifying the target DNA or RNA, wherein the nucleic acid-targeting complex comprises a nucleic acid-targeting effector protein complexed with a guide RNA hybridized to a target sequence within said target DNA or RNA. In one aspect, the invention provides a method of repairing a genetic locus in a cell. In another aspect, the invention provides a method of modifying expression of DNA or RNA in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a nucleic acid-targeting complex to bind to the DNA or RNA such that said binding results in increased or decreased expression of said DNA or RNA; wherein the nucleic acid-targeting complex comprises a nucleic acid-targeting effector protein complexed with a guide RNA. Similar considerations and conditions apply as above for methods of modifying a target DNA or RNA. In fact, these sampling, culturing and re-introduction options apply across the aspects of the present invention. In an aspect, the invention provides for methods of modifying a target DNA or RNA in a eukaryotic cell, which may be in vivo, ex vivo or in vitro. In some embodiments, the method comprises sampling a cell or population of cells from a human or non-human animal, and modifying the cell or cells. Culturing may occur at any stage ex vivo. Such cells can be, without limitation, plant cells, animal cells, particular cell types of any organism, including stem cells, immune cells, T cell, B cells, dendritic cells, cardiovascular cells, epithelial cells, stem cells and the like. The cells can be modified according to the invention to produce gene products, for example in controlled amounts, which may be increased or decreased, depending on use, and/or mutated. In certain embodiments, a genetic locus of the cell is repaired. The cell or cells may even be re-introduced into the non-human animal or plant. For re-introduced cells it may be preferred that the cells are stem cells.

In an aspect, the invention provides cells which transiently comprise CRISPR systems, or components. For example, CRISPR proteins or enzymes and nucleic acids are transiently provided to a cell and a genetic locus is altered, followed by a decline in the amount of one or more components of the CRISPR system. Subsequently, the cells, progeny of the cells, and organisms which comprise the cells, having acquired a CRISPR mediated genetic alteration, comprise a diminished amount of one or more CRISPR system components, or no longer contain the one or more CRISPR system components. One non-limiting example is a self-inactivating CRISPR-Cas system such as further described herein. Thus, the invention provides cells, and organisms, and progeny of the cells and organisms which comprise one or more CRISPR-Cas system-altered genetic loci, but essentially lack one or more CRISPR system component. In certain embodiments, the CRISPR system components are substantially absent. Such cells, tissues and organisms advantageously comprise a desired or selected genetic alteration but have lost CRISPR-Cas components or remnants thereof that potentially might act non-specifically, lead to questions of safety, or hinder regulatory approval. As well, the invention provides products made by the cells, organisms, and progeny of the cells and organisms.

The invention further provides a method of improving the specificity of a CRISPR system by providing an engineered CRISPR protein according to the invention. Preferably, an engineered CRISPR protein wherein

-   -   the protein complexes with a nucleic acid molecule comprising         RNA to form a CRISPR complex,     -   wherein when in the CRISPR complex, the nucleic acid molecule         targets one or more target polynucleotide loci,     -   the protein comprises at least one modification compared to the         unmodified protein,     -   wherein the CRISPR complex comprising the modified protein has         altered activity as compared to the complex comprising the         unmodified protein. Said at least one modification is preferably         in the RuvC and/or HNH domains as described herein or in the         binding groove between the HNH and RuvC domains. Preferred         modifications are mutations as described herein.

The invention further provides a use of an engineered CRISPR protein according to the invention to improve the specificity of a CRISPR system, Preferably an engineered CRISPR protein

-   -   wherein the protein complexes with a nucleic acid molecule         comprising RNA to form a CRISPR complex,     -   wherein when in the CRISPR complex, the nucleic acid molecule         targets one or more target polynucleotide loci,     -   wherein the protein is modified to comprise at least one         modification compared to the unmodified protein,

wherein the CRISPR complex comprising the modified protein has altered activity as compared to the complex comprising the unmodified protein. Said at least one modification is preferably in the RuvC and/or HNH domains as described herein or in the binding groove between the HNH and RuvC domains. Preferred modifications are mutations as described herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

FIG. 1A-1B provides a schematic summary, with it understood that Applicant(s)/inventor(s) are not necessarily bound by any particular theory set forth herein or in any particular Figure, including FIG. 1. The Figure discusses mutation of positively charged residues binding to the non-targeted gDNA strand whereby specificity is improved. Data in the Table of the schematic summary is as follows and is as to mutations of SpCas9:

ON OFF OFF Cas9 Target Target Target Mutant (EMX1) 1(OT25) 2(OT46) WT 24.8 10.5 8.8 R780 22.9 0.0 0.1 K810 23.3 0.1 0.1 K848 24.3 0.1 0.1 K855 25.1 0.2 0.3 R976 15.6 0.1 0.1 H982 20.9 0.5 0.4 K1003 24.6 4.1 2.8 R1060 20.4 1.3 1.8 GFP 0.1 0.0 0.1 untrans. 0.1 0.0 0.1 With reference to the numbering of SpCas9, FIG. 1A illustrates Alanine mutations that improve specificity, distributed along the non-targeting strand groove, e.g., Arg780, Lys810, Lys855, Lys848, Lys1003, Arg1060, Arg976, His982. Without wishing to be bound by any one particular theory, the mechanism proposal is that nuclease activity is inactive until the non-targeted DNA strand sterically triggers HNH conformation change; non-targeted strand binding to the groove between HNH and RuvC depends on RNA:DNA pairing; mutating DNA binding residues in the groove places more energetic demand on proper RNA:DNA pairing (FIG. 1B). Using the information herein, including in FIG. 1, the skilled person can readily prepare mutants of other Cas9s (e.g., other than SpCas9) that exhibit improved or reduced off-target effects. For instance, the documents cited herein provide information on numerous orthologs to SpCas9 and SaCas9 exemplified herein. From that information, including the sequence information of those other Cas9s, one skilled in the art can, from the information in this disclosure, readily prepare analogous mutants having reduced off-target effects in Cas9 orthologs in addition to SpCas9 and SaCas9 exemplified herein. Further, documents herein provide crystal structure information as to Cas9, e.g., SpCas9; and one can readily make structural comparisons between crystal structures, e.g., between the crystal structure of SpCas9 and the crystal structure of an ortholog thereto, to also readily, without undue experimentation, obtain analogous mutants having reduced off-target effects in Cas9 orthologs in addition to SpCas9. Accordingly, the invention is broadly applicable to modification(s) or mutation(s) in various Cas9 orthologs to reduce off-target effects, including but not limited to SpCas9 and SaCas9. As discussed further herein, additional or further modification of the above-described Cas9 enzymes can readily be achieved whereby the enzyme in the CRISPR complex has increased capability of modifying the one or more target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme.

FIG. 2A shows activity of modified SpCas9 enzymes as measured by % INDEL formation. 49 point mutants of SpCas9 are depicted. The target sequence of EMX1.3 is a sequence of the EMX1 gene and activity is compared against a related off-target sequence (OT 46).

FIG. 2B shows activity of modified SpCas9 enzymes as measured by % INDEL formation. 49 point mutants of SpCas9 are depicted. The target sequence is a sequence of the VEGFA gene and activity is compared against two related off-target sequences (OT 1 and OT 2).

FIG. 2C shows activity of modified SpCas9 enzymes as measured by % INDEL formation. The target sequence is a sequence of the VEGFA gene and activity is compared against three related off-target sequences (OT 1, OT 4, and OT 18).

FIG. 3 shows activity of modified SpCas9 enzymes as measured by % INDEL formation. Point mutants demonstrating specificity with respect to off-target sequences are depicted. The target sequences are sequences of the EMX1 and VEGFA genes and activity is compared against nine related off-target sequences.

FIG. 4A shows activity of modified SpCas9 enzymes as measured by % INDEL formation. Double mutants of SpCas9 are depicted. The target sequence is a sequence of the EMX1 gene and activity is compared against two related off-target sequences.

FIG. 4B shows activity of modified SpCas9 enzymes as measured by % INDEL formation. Double mutants of SpCas9 are depicted. The target sequence is a sequence of the VEGFA genes and activity is compared against three related off-target sequences.

FIG. 5 shows activity of modified SpCas9 enzymes as measured by % INDEL formation. 14 triple mutants of SpCas9 are depicted. The target sequences are sequences of the EMX1 and VEGFA genes and activity is compared against four related off-target sequences (OT 46, OT 1, OT 4 and OT 18).

FIG. 6 shows activity of modified SaCas9 enzymes as measured by % INDEL formation. The target sequence EMX101 is a sequence of the EMX1 gene and activity is compared against three related off-target sequences (OT1, OT2 and OT3).

FIG. 7 shows activity of modified SaCas9 enzymes as measured by % INDEL formation. The target sequence of EMX101 is a sequence of EMX1 and the activity is compared against a related off-target sequence (OT3).

FIG. 8A-8D shows a phylogenetic tree of Cas genes; from the teachings herein and the knowledge in the art, mutation(s) or modification(s) of the exemplified SpCas9 and SaCas9 can be applied to other Cas9s.

FIG. 9A-9F shows the phylogenetic analysis revealing five families of Cas9s, including three groups of large Cas9s (˜1400 amino acids) and two of small Cas9s (˜1100 amino acids); from the teachings herein and the knowledge in the art, mutation(s) or modification(s) of the exemplified SpCas9 and SaCas9 can be applied to other Cas9s (and thus, the invention comprehends modification(s) or mutation(s) as herein exemplified as to SpCas9 and SaCas9 across Cas9s and the families and groups of Cas9s of FIG. 9).

FIG. 10A-10D shows activity of modified SpCas9 enzymes as measured by % INDEL formation. FIGS. 10A-C show activity for target sequences EMX101, EMX1.1, EMX1.2, EMX1.3, EMX1.8, EMX1.10, DNMT1.1, DNMT1.2, DNMT1.4, DNMT1.7, VEGFA4, VEGFA5, and VEGFA3. FIG. 10D shows VEGFA3 activity compared against off-target sequence OT4.

FIG. 11A-11D shows activity of modified SpCas9 enzymes as measured by % INDEL formation. FIGS. 11A-C show activity for target sequences EMX101, EMX1.1, EMX1.2, EMX1.3, EMX1.8, EMX1.10, DNMT1.1, DNMT1.2, DNMT1.4, DNMT1.7, VEGFA4, VEGFA5, and VEGFA3. FIG. 11D shows VEGFA3 activity compared against off-target sequence OT4.

FIG. 12 shows activity of modified SpCas9 enzymes as measured by % INDEL formation. The target sequence is VEGFA3 and activity is compared against four related off-target sequences (OT1, OT2, OT4 and OT18).

FIG. 13 shows activity of modified SpCas9 enzymes as measured by % INDEL formation. The target sequence is VEGFA3 and activity is compared against four related off-target sequences (OT1, OT2, OT4 and OT18).

FIG. 14 shows activity of modified SpCas9 enzymes as measured by % INDEL formation. 14 point mutants of SpCas9 are depicted. The target sequence is EMX1.3 and activity is compared against five related off-target sequences (OT14, OT23, OE35, OT46, and OT53).

FIG. 15A-15F shows structural aspects of SpCas9 and improved specificity. Panel A is a model of target unwinding. The nt-groove between the RuvC (teal) and HNH (magenta) domains stabilize DNA unwinding through non-specific DNA interactions with the non-complementary strand. RNA:cDNA and Cas9:ncDNA interactions drive DNA unwinding (top arrow) in competition against cDNA:ncDNA rehybridization (bottom arrow). Panel B: The structure of SpCas9 (PDB ID 4UN3) showing the nt-groove situated between the HNH (magenta) and RuvC (teal) domains. The non-target DNA strand (red) was manually modeled into the nt-groove (inset). Panel C: Screen of alanine point mutants for improvement in specificity. Panel D: Assessment of top point mutants at additional off-target loci. The top five specificity conferring mutants are highlighted in red. Panel E: Combination mutants improve specificity compared to single point mutants. eSpCas9(1.0) and eSpCas9(1.1) are highlighted in red. Panel F: Screen of top point mutants and combination mutants at 10 target loci for on-target cleavage efficiency. SpCas9(K855A), eSpCas9(1.0), and eSpCas9(1.1) are highlighted in red. FIG. 15F discloses SEQ ID NOS 424-433, respectively, in order of appearance.

FIG. 16A-16C shows maintenance of on-target efficiency by spCas9 mutants. Panel A shows an assessment of efficiency of on-target cutting of SpCas9 mutants as compared to SpCas9 for 24 sgRNAs targeted to 9 genomic loci. FIG. 16A discloses SEQ ID NOS 434-457, respectively, in order of appearance. Panel B is a Tukey plot of normalized on-target indel formation for mutants SpCas9(K855A), eSpCas9(1.0) and eSpCas9(1.1). Panel C is a Western blot of SpCas9 and mutants using anti-SpCas9 antibody.

FIG. 17A-17C shows sensitivity of spCas9 and mutants K855A, eSpCas9(1.0), and eSpCas9(1.1) to single and double base mismatches between the guide RNA and target DNA. Panel A depicts mismatched guide sequences against a VEGFA target. FIG. 17A discloses SEQ ID NOS 458-480, respectively, in order of appearance. Panel B provides heat maps for spCas9 and three mutants showing indel % with guide sequences having a single base mismatch. FIG. 17A discloses SEQ ID NOS 458-480, respectively, in order of appearance. Panel C shows indel formation with guide sequences containing consecutive transversion mismatches. Compared to wild type: eSpCas9(1.0) comprises K810A, K1003A, R1060A; eSpCas9(1.1) comprises K848A, K1003A, R1060A. FIG. 17C discloses SEQ ID NOS 485-503, respectively, in order of appearance.

FIG. 18A-18F shows unbiased genome-wide off-target profiles of mutants SpCas9(K855A) and eSpCas9(1.1). Panel A is a Schematic outline of the BLESS (direct in situ breaks labelling, enrichment on streptavidin and next-generation sequencing) workflow. Panel B shows representative BLESS sequencing for forward (red) and reverse (blue) reads mapped to the genome. Reads mapping at Cas9 cut sites have distinct shape compared to DSB hotspots. Panels C and D show Manhattan plots of genome-wide DSB clusters generated by each SpCas9 mutant using the EMX1(1) (panel C) and VEGFA(1) (panel D) targeting guides. Panels E an F depict targeted deep sequencing validation of off-target sites identified in BLESS. Off-target sites are ordered by DSB score (blue heatmap). Green heatmaps indicates sequence similarity between target and off-target sequences. FIGS. 18E and F disclose SEQ ID NOS 504-519, respectively, in order of appearance.

FIG. 19 shows a schematic of sgRNA guided targeting and DNA unwinding. Cas9 cleaves target DNA in a series of coordinated steps. First, the PAM-interacting domain recognizes an NGG sequence 5′ of the target DNA. After PAM binding, the first 10-12 nucleotides of the target sequence (seed sequence) are sampled for sgRNA:DNA complementarity, a process dependent on DNA duplex separation. If the seed sequence nucleotides complement the sgRNA, the remainder of DNA is unwound and the full length of sgRNA hybridizes with the target DNA strand. In this model, the nt-groove between the RuvC (teal) and HNH (magenta) domains stabilizes the non-targeted DNA strand and facilitates unwinding through non-specific interactions with positive charges of the DNA phosphate backbone. RNA:cDNA and Cas9:ncDNA interactions drive DNA unwinding (top arrow) in competition against cDNA:ncDNA rehybridization (bottom arrow).

FIG. 20 depicts electrostatics of SpCas9 reveal non-target strand groove. (A) Crystal structure (4UN3) of SpCas9 paired with sgRNA and target DNA colored by electrostatic potential to highlight positively charged regions. Scale is from −10 to 1 keV. (B) Identical to panel (A) with HNH domain removed to reveal the sgRNA:DNA heteroduplex. (C) Crystal structure (in the same orientation as (A)) colored by domain: HNH (magenta), RuvC (teal), and PAM-interacting (PI) (beige).

FIGS. 21A-21D show an off-target analysis of generated mutants. Twenty-nine SpCas9 point mutants were generated and tested for specificity at (A) an EMX1 target site and (B) two VEGFA target sites. Mutants combining the top residues that improved specificity were further tested at (C) EMX1 and (D) VEGFA.

FIG. 22A-22C provides an annotated SpCas9 amino acid sequence (SEQ ID NO: 520). Mutations of SpCas9 that altered non-targeted strand groove charges were primarily in the RuvC and HNH domains (highlighted in yellow). RuvC (cyan), bridge helix (BH, green), REC (grey), HNH (magenta), and PI (beige) domains are annotated as in Nishmasu et al.

FIG. 23 shows a comparison of the specificity of K855A, eSpCas9(1.0), and eSpCas9(1.1) with truncated sgRNAs and indicates SpCas9(1.0) and eSpCas9(1.1) outperform truncated sgRNAs as a strategy for improving specificity. Indel frequency at three loci (EMX1(1), VEGFA(1) and VEGFA(5)) were tested at major annotated and predicted off-target sites. For both VEGFA target sites, tru-sgRNA increased indel frequency at some off-target sites and generated indels at off-targets not observed in wild type. The number of off-target sites detectable by NGS each SpCas9 mutant are listed below the heat map. FIG. 23 discloses (SEQ ID NOS 521-547, top to bottom, left to right, in order of appearance).

FIG. 24 shows increasing positive charge in the nt-groove can result in increased cleavage at off-target sites. Point mutants SpCas9(S845K) and SpCas9(L847R) exhibited less specificity than wild-type SpCas9 at the EMX1(1) target site.

FIGS. 25A-25D depict generation of eSaCas9 through mutagenesis of the nt-groove. An improved specificity version of SaCas9 was generated similarly to eSpCas9. (A,B) Single and double amino acid mutants of residues in the groove between the RuvC and HNH domains were screened for decreased off-target cutting. (C) Mutants with improved specificity were combined to make a variant of SaCas9 that maintained on-target cutting at EMX site 7 and had significantly reduced off-target cutting. (D) Crystal structure of SaCas9 showing the groove between the HNH and RuvC domains.

FIG. 26 shows a characterization of on-target efficiency for certain specificity-enhancing mutants. Three SpCas9 mutants at the phosphate lock loop (Lys1107, Glu1108, Ser1109) in the PI domain confer specificity to bases 1 and 2 of the sgRNA proximal to the PAM. These consisted of a point mutant (K1107A) and two mutants in which the Lys-Glu-Ser sequence was replaced with the dipeptides Lys-Gly (KG) and Gly-Gly (GG), respectively. Our data indicated that these mutants can substantially reduce on-target cleavage efficiency.

FIG. 27 shows eSpCas9(1.1) is not cytotoxic to human cells. HEK293T cells were transfected with WT or eSpCas9(1.1) and incubated for 72 hours before measuring cell survival using the CellTiter-Glo assay which fluoresces in response ATP production by live cells.

FIG. 28 shows an analysis of Nt-groove mutants with truncated guide RNAs. Truncated guide RNAs (Tru) were combined with single amino acid SpCas9 mutants and targeted to (A) EMX1(1) or (B) VEGFA(1). While most mutants targeted to EMX1 with an 18 nt guide retained on-target efficiency, those targeted to VEGFA(1) with a 17 nt guide were severely compromised.

FIGS. 29A-29B shows selected single and double amino acid mutants. As in SpCas9, reduction of positive charges in the non-targeting strand groove enhances specificity. Reduction of positive charges can be archived by substituting positive charged amino acids with neutral or negative charged amino acids (A) or by moving the position of the positive charged amino acid inside the groove (B). Mutants of interest are K572,

FIG. 30 shows improved specificity of selected mutants. CM2 exhibits strong reduction in off target activity while retaining full on target activity. CM1: R499A; Q500K; K572A. CM2: R499A; Q500K; R654A; G655R. CM3: K572A; R654A; G655R.

FIG. 31 shows activation of gamma globin HBG1 locus by complexes of spCas9 or spCas9 mutants guides of length 15 bp, 17 bp, and 20 bp. Cas9 (px165) is unmutated spCas9. dCas9 indicates inactive spCas9. Depicted single mutants (“SM”) are R780A, K810A, and K848A. Depicted double mutants (“DM”) are R780A/K810A, and R780A/K855A.

FIG. 32 shows comparison of different programmable nuclease platforms.

FIG. 33 shows Types of Therapeutic Genome Modifications. The specific type of genome editing therapy depends on the nature of the mutation causing disease. a, In gene disruption, the pathogenic function of a protein is silenced by targeting the locus with NHEJ. Formation of indels on the gene of interest often result in frameshift mutations that create premature stop codons and a non-functional protein product, or non-sense mediated decay of transcripts, suppressing gene function. b, HDR gene correction can be used to correct a deleterious mutation. DSB is targeted near the mutation site in the presence of an exogenously provided, corrective HDR template. HDR repair of the break site with the exogenous template corrects the mutation, restoring gene function. c, An alternative to gene correction is gene addition. This mode of treatment introduces a therapeutic transgene into a safe-harbor locus in the genome. DSB is targeted to the safe-harbor locus and an HDR template containing homology to the break site, a promoter and a transgene is introduced to the nucleus. HDR repair copies the promoter-transgene cassette into the safe-harbor locus, recovering gene function, albeit without true physiological control over gene expression.

FIG. 34 shows Ex vivo vs. in vivo editing therapy. In ex vivo editing therapy cells are removed from a patient, edited and then re-engrafted (top panel). For this mode of therapy to be successful, target cells must be capable of survival outside the body and homing back to target tissues post-transplantation. In vivo therapy involves genome editing of cells in situ (bottom panels). For in vivo systemic therapy, delivery agents that are relatively agnostic to cell identity or state would be used to effect editing in a wide range of tissue types. Although this mode of editing therapy may be possible in the future, no delivery systems currently exist that are efficient enough to make this feasible. In vivo targeted therapy, where delivery agents with tropism for specific organ systems are administered to patients are feasible with clinically relevant viral vectors.

FIGS. 35A-35B show a schematic representation of gene therapy via Cas9 Homologous Recombination (HR) vectors.

FIG. 36 presents a schematic of sugar attachments for directed delivery of protein or guide, especially with GalNac.

FIGS. 37A, 37B, and 37C together illustrate a sequence alignment of SaCas9 and SpCas9. RUVC and HNH domain annotations for the two proteins are also shown in the three figures.

FIGS. 38A and 38B show a table of guide sequences and NGS primers (SEQ ID NOS 216-365, top to bottom, left to right, in order of appearance).

The figures herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not necessarily drawn to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Before the present methods of the invention are described, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to particular methods, components, products or combinations described, as such methods, components, products and combinations may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is not intended to be limiting, since the scope of the present invention will be limited only by the appended claims.

As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

The terms “comprising”, “comprises” and “comprised of” as used herein are synonymous with “including”, “includes” or “containing”, “contains”, and are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, non-recited members, elements or method steps. It will be appreciated that the terms “comprising”, “comprises” and “comprised of” as used herein comprise the terms “consisting of”, “consists” and “consists of”, as well as the terms “consisting essentially of”, “consists essentially” and “consists essentially of”. It is noted that in this disclosure and particularly in the claims and/or paragraphs, terms such as “comprises”, “comprised”, “comprising” and the like can have the meaning attributed to it in U.S. Patent law; e.g., they can mean “includes”, “included”, “including”, and the like; and that terms such as “consisting essentially of” and “consists essentially of” have the meaning ascribed to them in U.S. Patent law, e.g., they allow for elements not explicitly recited, but exclude elements that are found in the prior art or that affect a basic or novel characteristic of the invention. It may be advantageous in the practice of the invention to be in compliance with Art. 53(c) EPC and Rule 28(b) and (c) EPC. Nothing herein is intended as a promise.

The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within the respective ranges, as well as the recited endpoints.

The term “about” or “approximately” as used herein when referring to a measurable value such as a parameter, an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, is meant to encompass variations of +/−20% or less, preferably +/−10% or less, more preferably +/−5% or less, and still more preferably +/−1% or less of and from the specified value, insofar such variations are appropriate to perform in the disclosed invention. It is to be understood that the value to which the modifier “about” or “approximately” refers is itself also specifically, and preferably, disclosed.

Whereas the terms “one or more” or “at least one”, such as one or more or at least one member(s) of a group of members, is clear per se, by means of further exemplification, the term encompasses inter alia a reference to any one of said members, or to any two or more of said members, such as, e.g., any ≥3, ≥4, ≥5, ≥6 or ≥7 etc. of said members, and up to all said members.

All references cited in the present specification are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. In particular, the teachings of all references herein specifically referred to are incorporated by reference.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in disclosing the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. By means of further guidance, term definitions are included to better appreciate the teaching of the present invention.

In the following passages, different aspects of the invention are defined in more detail. Each aspect so defined may be combined with any other aspect or aspects unless clearly indicated to the contrary. In particular, any feature indicated as being preferred or advantageous may be combined with any other feature or features indicated as being preferred or advantageous.

Standard reference works setting forth the general principles of recombinant DNA technology include Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, 2nd ed., vol. 1-3, ed. Sambrook et al., Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y., 1989; Current Protocols in Molecular Biology, ed. Ausubel et al., Greene Publishing and Wiley-Interscience, New York, 1992 (with periodic updates) (“Ausubel et al. 1992”); the series Methods in Enzymology (Academic Press, Inc.); Innis et al., PCR Protocols: A Guide to Methods and Applications, Academic Press: San Diego, 1990; PCR 2: A Practical Approach (M. J. MacPherson, B. D. Hames and G. R. Taylor eds. (1995); Harlow and Lane, eds. (1988) Antibodies, a Laboratory Manual; and Animal Cell Culture (R. I. Freshney, ed. (1987). General principles of microbiology are set forth, for example, in Davis, B. D. et al., Microbiology, 3rd edition, Harper & Row, publishers, Philadelphia, Pa. (1980).

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments. Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the appended claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

In this description of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration only of specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

It is an object of the invention to not encompass within the invention any previously known product, process of making the product, or method of using the product such that Applicants reserve the right and hereby disclose a disclaimer of any previously known product, process, or method. It is further noted that the invention does not intend to encompass within the scope of the invention any product, process, or making of the product or method of using the product, which does not meet the written description and enablement requirements of the USPTO (35 U.S.C. § 112, first paragraph) or the EPO (Article 83 of the EPC), such that Applicants reserve the right and hereby disclose a disclaimer of any previously described product, process of making the product, or method of using the product.

Preferred statements (features) and embodiments of this invention are set herein below. Each statements and embodiments of the invention so defined may be combined with any other statement and/or embodiments unless clearly indicated to the contrary. In particular, any feature indicated as being preferred or advantageous may be combined with any other feature or features or statements indicated as being preferred or advantageous.

As used herein, the term “non-human organism” or “non-human cell” refers to an organism or cell different than or not originating from Homo sapiens. As used herein, the term “non-human eukaryote” or “non-human eukaryotic cell” refers to a eukaryotic organism or cell different than or not derived from Homo sapiens. In preferred embodiments, such eukaryote (cell) is a non-human animal (cell), such as (a cell or cell population of a) non-human mammal, non-human primate, an ungulate, rodent (preferably a mouse or rat), rabbit, canine, dog, cow, bovine, sheep, ovine, goat, pig, fowl, poultry, chicken, fish, insect, or arthropod, preferably a mammal, such as a rodent, in particular a mouse. In some embodiments of the invention the organism or subject or cell may be (a cell or cell population derived from) an arthropod, for example, an insect, or a nematode. In some methods of the invention the organism or subject or cell is a plant (cell). In some methods of the invention the organism or subject or cell is (derived from) algae, including microalgae, or fungus. The skilled person will appreciate that the eukaryotic cells which may be transplanted or introduced in a non-human eukaryote according to the methods as referred to herein are preferably derived from or originate from the same species as the eukaryote to which they are transplanted. For example, a mouse cell is transplanted in a mouse in certain embodiment according to the methods of the invention as described herein. In certain embodiments, the eukaryote is an immunocompromized eukaryote, i.e. a eukaryote in which the immune system is partially or completely shut down. For instance, immunocompromized mice may be used in the methods according to the invention as described herein. Examples of immunocompromized mice include, but are not limited to Nude mice, RAG −/− mice, SCID (severe compromised immunodeficiency) mice, SCID-Beige mice, NOD (non-obese diabetic)-SCID mice, NOG or NSG mice, etc.

It will be understood that the CRISPR-Cas system as described herein is non-naturally occurring in said cell, i.e. engineered or exogenous to said cell. The CRISPR-Cas system as referred to herein has been introduced in said cell. Methods for introducing the CRISPR-Cas system in a cell are known in the art, and are further described herein elsewhere. The cell comprising the CRISPR-Cas system, or having the CRISPR-Cas system introduced, according to the invention comprises or is capable of expressing the individual components of the CRISPR-Cas system to establish a functional CRISPR complex, capable of modifying (such as cleaving) a target DNA sequence. Accordingly, as referred to herein, the cell comprising the CRISPR-Cas system can be a cell comprising the individual components of the CRISPR-Cas system to establish a functional CRISPR complex, capable of modifying (such as cleaving) a target DNA sequence. Alternatively, as referred to herein, and preferably, the cell comprising the CRISPR-Cas system can be a cell comprising one or more nucleic acid molecule encoding the individual components of the CRISPR-Cas system, which can be expressed in the cell to establish a functional CRISPR complex, capable of modifying (such as cleaving) a target DNA sequence.

As used herein, the term “crRNA” or “guide RNA” or “single guide RNA” or “sgRNA” or “one or more nucleic acid components” of a Type V or Type VI CRISPR-Cas locus effector protein comprises any polynucleotide sequence having sufficient complementarity with a target nucleic acid sequence to hybridize with the target nucleic acid sequence and direct sequence-specific binding of a nucleic acid-targeting complex to the target nucleic acid sequence. In some embodiments, the degree of complementarity, when optimally aligned using a suitable alignment algorithm, is about or more than about 50%, 60%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 97.5%, 99%, or more. Optimal alignment may be determined with the use of any suitable algorithm for aligning sequences, non-limiting example of which include the Smith-Waterman algorithm, the Needleman-Wunsch algorithm, algorithms based on the Burrows-Wheeler Transform (e.g., the Burrows Wheeler Aligner), ClustalW, Clustal X, BLAT, Novoalign (Novocraft Technologies; available at www.novocraft.com), ELAND (Illumina, San Diego, Calif.), SOAP (available at soap.genomics.org.cn), and Maq (available at maq.sourceforge.net). The ability of a guide sequence (within a nucleic acid-targeting guide RNA) to direct sequence-specific binding of a nucleic acid-targeting complex to a target nucleic acid sequence may be assessed by any suitable assay. For example, the components of a nucleic acid-targeting CRISPR system sufficient to form a nucleic acid-targeting complex, including the guide sequence to be tested, may be provided to a host cell having the corresponding target nucleic acid sequence, such as by transfection with vectors encoding the components of the nucleic acid-targeting complex, followed by an assessment of preferential targeting (e.g., cleavage) within the target nucleic acid sequence, such as by Surveyor assay as described herein. Similarly, cleavage of a target nucleic acid sequence may be evaluated in a test tube by providing the target nucleic acid sequence, components of a nucleic acid-targeting complex, including the guide sequence to be tested and a control guide sequence different from the test guide sequence, and comparing binding or rate of cleavage at the target sequence between the test and control guide sequence reactions. Other assays are possible, and will occur to those skilled in the art. A guide sequence, and hence a nucleic acid-targeting guide RNA may be selected to target any target nucleic acid sequence. The target sequence may be DNA. The target sequence may be any RNA sequence. In some embodiments, the target sequence may be a sequence within a RNA molecule selected from the group consisting of messenger RNA (mRNA), pre-mRNA, ribosomal RNA (rRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), micro-RNA (miRNA), small interfering RNA (siRNA), small nuclear RNA (snRNA), small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA), double stranded RNA (dsRNA), non-coding RNA (ncRNA), long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), and small cytoplasmatic RNA (scRNA). In some preferred embodiments, the target sequence may be a sequence within a RNA molecule selected from the group consisting of mRNA, pre-mRNA, and rRNA. In some preferred embodiments, the target sequence may be a sequence within a RNA molecule selected from the group consisting of ncRNA, and lncRNA. In some more preferred embodiments, the target sequence may be a sequence within an mRNA molecule or a pre-mRNA molecule.

In some embodiments, a nucleic acid-targeting guide RNA is selected to reduce the degree secondary structure within the RNA-targeting guide RNA. In some embodiments, about or less than about 75%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%, 5%, 1%, or fewer of the nucleotides of the nucleic acid-targeting guide RNA participate in self-complementary base pairing when optimally folded. Optimal folding may be determined by any suitable polynucleotide folding algorithm. Some programs are based on calculating the minimal Gibbs free energy. An example of one such algorithm is mFold, as described by Zuker and Stiegler (Nucleic Acids Res. 9 (1981), 133-148). Another example folding algorithm is the online webserver RNAfold, developed at Institute for Theoretical Chemistry at the University of Vienna, using the centroid structure prediction algorithm (see e.g., A. R. Gruber et al., 2008, Cell 106(1): 23-24; and P A Carr and G M Church, 2009, Nature Biotechnology 27(12): 1151-62).

In certain embodiments, a guide RNA or crRNA may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of a direct repeat (DR) sequence and a guide sequence or spacer sequence. In certain embodiments, the guide RNA or crRNA may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of a direct repeat sequence fused or linked to a guide sequence or spacer sequence. In certain embodiments, the direct repeat sequence may be located upstream (i.e., 5′) from the guide sequence or spacer sequence. In other embodiments, the direct repeat sequence may be located downstream (i.e., 3′) from the guide sequence or spacer sequence.

In certain embodiments, the crRNA comprises a stem loop, preferably a single stem loop. In certain embodiments, the direct repeat sequence forms a stem loop, preferably a single stem loop.

In certain embodiments, the spacer length of the guide RNA is from 15 to 35 nt. In certain embodiments, the spacer length of the guide RNA is at least 15 nucleotides. In certain embodiments, the spacer length is from 15 to 17 nt, e.g., 15, 16, or 17 nt, from 17 to 20 nt, e.g., 17, 18, 19, or 20 nt, from 20 to 24 nt, e.g., 20, 21, 22, 23, or 24 nt, from 23 to 25 nt, e.g., 23, 24, or 25 nt, from 24 to 27 nt, e.g., 24, 25, 26, or 27 nt, from 27-30 nt, e.g., 27, 28, 29, or 30 nt, from 30-35 nt, e.g., 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, or 35 nt, or 35 nt or longer.

The “tracrRNA” sequence or analogous terms includes any polynucleotide sequence that has sufficient complementarity with a crRNA sequence to hybridize. In some embodiments, the degree of complementarity between the tracrRNA sequence and crRNA sequence along the length of the shorter of the two when optimally aligned is about or more than about 25%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 97.5%, 99%, or higher. In some embodiments, the tracr sequence is about or more than about 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, or more nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the tracr sequence and crRNA sequence are contained within a single transcript, such that hybridization between the two produces a transcript having a secondary structure, such as a hairpin. In an embodiment of the invention, the transcript or transcribed polynucleotide sequence has at least two or more hairpins. In preferred embodiments, the transcript has two, three, four or five hairpins. In a further embodiment of the invention, the transcript has at most five hairpins. In a hairpin structure the portion of the sequence 5′ of the final “N” and upstream of the loop corresponds to the tracr mate sequence, and the portion of the sequence 3′ of the loop corresponds to the tracr sequence.

In general, the CRISPR-Cas, CRISPR-Cas9 or CRISPR system may be as used in the foregoing documents, such as WO 2014/093622 (PCT/US2013/074667) and refers collectively to transcripts and other elements involved in the expression of or directing the activity of CRISPR-associated (“Cas”) genes, including sequences encoding a Cas gene, in particular a Cas9 gene in the case of CRISPR-Cas9, a tracr (trans-activating CRISPR) sequence (e.g. tracrRNA or an active partial tracrRNA), a tracr-mate sequence (encompassing a “direct repeat” and a tracrRNA-processed partial direct repeat in the context of an endogenous CRISPR system), a guide sequence (also referred to as a “spacer” in the context of an endogenous CRISPR system), or “RNA(s)” as that term is herein used (e.g., RNA(s) to guide Cas9, e.g. CRISPR RNA and transactivating (tracr) RNA or a single guide RNA (sgRNA) (chimeric RNA)) or other sequences and transcripts from a CRISPR locus. In general, a CRISPR system is characterized by elements that promote the formation of a CRISPR complex at the site of a target sequence (also referred to as a protospacer in the context of an endogenous CRISPR system). In the context of formation of a CRISPR complex, “target sequence” refers to a sequence to which a guide sequence is designed to have complementarity, where hybridization between a target sequence and a guide sequence promotes the formation of a CRISPR complex. The section of the guide sequence through which complementarity to the target sequence is important for cleavage activity is referred to herein as the seed sequence. A target sequence may comprise any polynucleotide, such as DNA or RNA polynucleotides. In some embodiments, a target sequence is located in the nucleus or cytoplasm of a cell, and may include nucleic acids in or from mitochondrial, organelles, vesicles, liposomes or particles present within the cell. In some embodiments, especially for non-nuclear uses, NLSs are not preferred. In some embodiments, direct repeats may be identified in silico by searching for repetitive motifs that fulfill any or all of the following criteria: 1. found in a 2 Kb window of genomic sequence flanking the type II CRISPR locus; 2. span from 20 to 50 bp; and 3. interspaced by 20 to 50 bp. In some embodiments, 2 of these criteria may be used, for instance 1 and 2, 2 and 3, or 1 and 3. In some embodiments, all 3 criteria may be used.

In embodiments of the invention the terms guide sequence and guide RNA, i.e. RNA capable of guiding Cas to a target genomic locus, are used interchangeably as in foregoing cited documents such as WO 2014/093622 (PCT/US2013/074667). In general, a guide sequence is any polynucleotide sequence having sufficient complementarity with a target polynucleotide sequence to hybridize with the target sequence and direct sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR complex to the target sequence. In some embodiments, the degree of complementarity between a guide sequence and its corresponding target sequence, when optimally aligned using a suitable alignment algorithm, is about or more than about 50%, 60%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 97.5%, 99%, or more. Optimal alignment may be determined with the use of any suitable algorithm for aligning sequences, non-limiting example of which include the Smith-Waterman algorithm, the Needleman-Wunsch algorithm, algorithms based on the Burrows-Wheeler Transform (e.g. the Burrows Wheeler Aligner), ClustalW, Clustal X, BLAT, Novoalign (Novocraft Technologies; available at www.novocraft.com), ELAND (Illumina, San Diego, Calif.), SOAP (available at soap.genomics.org.cn), and Maq (available at maq.sourceforge.net). In some embodiments, a guide sequence is about or more than about 5, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 75, or more nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, a guide sequence is less than about 75, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 12, or fewer nucleotides in length. Preferably the guide sequence is 10 30 nucleotides long. The ability of a guide sequence to direct sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR complex to a target sequence may be assessed by any suitable assay. For example, the components of a CRISPR system sufficient to form a CRISPR complex, including the guide sequence to be tested, may be provided to a host cell having the corresponding target sequence, such as by transfection with vectors encoding the components of the CRISPR sequence, followed by an assessment of preferential cleavage within the target sequence, such as by Surveyor assay as described herein. Similarly, cleavage of a target polynucleotide sequence may be evaluated in a test tube by providing the target sequence, components of a CRISPR complex, including the guide sequence to be tested and a control guide sequence different from the test guide sequence, and comparing binding or rate of cleavage at the target sequence between the test and control guide sequence reactions. Other assays are possible, and will occur to those skilled in the art.

In some embodiments of CRISPR-Cas systems, the degree of complementarity between a guide sequence and its corresponding target sequence can be about or more than about 50%, 60%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 97.5%, 99%, or 100%; a guide or RNA or sgRNA can be about or more than about 5, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 75, or more nucleotides in length; or guide or RNA or sgRNA can be less than about 75, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 12, or fewer nucleotides in length; and advantageously tracr RNA is 30 or 50 nucleotides in length. However, an aspect of the invention is to reduce off-target interactions, e.g., reduce the guide interacting with a target sequence having low complementarity. Indeed, in the examples, it is shown that the invention involves mutations that result in the CRISPR-Cas system being able to distinguish between target and off-target sequences that have greater than 80% to about 95% complementarity, e.g., 83%-84% or 88-89% or 94-95% complementarity (for instance, distinguishing between a target having 18 nucleotides from an off-target of 18 nucleotides having 1, 2 or 3 mismatches). Accordingly, in the context of the present invention the degree of complementarity between a guide sequence and its corresponding target sequence is greater than 94.5% or 95% or 95.5% or 96% or 96.5% or 97% or 97.5% or 98% or 98.5% or 99% or 99.5% or 99.9%, or 100%. Off target is less than 100% or 99.9% or 99.5% or 99% or 99% or 98.5% or 98% or 97.5% or 97% or 96.5% or 96% or 95.5% or 95% or 94.5% or 94% or 93% or 92% or 91% or 90% or 89% or 88% or 87% or 86% or 85% or 84% or 83% or 82% or 81% or 80% complementarity between the sequence and the guide, with it advantageous that off target is 100% or 99.9% or 99.5% or 99% or 99% or 98.5% or 98% or 97.5% or 97% or 96.5% or 96% or 95.5% or 95% or 94.5% complementarity between the sequence and the guide.

In particularly preferred embodiments according to the invention, the guide RNA (capable of guiding Cas to a target locus) may comprise (1) a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a genomic target locus in the eukaryotic cell; (2) a tracr sequence; and (3) a tracr mate sequence. All (1) to (3) may reside in a single RNA, i.e. an sgRNA (arranged in a 5′ to 3′ orientation), or the tracr RNA may be a different RNA than the RNA containing the guide and tracr sequence. The tracr hybridizes to the tracr mate sequence and directs the CRISPR/Cas complex to the target sequence.

The methods according to the invention as described herein comprehend inducing one or more mutations in a eukaryotic cell (in vitro, i.e. in an isolated eukaryotic cell) as herein discussed comprising delivering to cell a vector as herein discussed. The mutation(s) can include the introduction, deletion, or substitution of one or more nucleotides at each target sequence of cell(s) via the guide(s) RNA(s) or sgRNA(s). The mutations can include the introduction, deletion, or substitution of 1-75 nucleotides at each target sequence of said cell(s) via the guide(s) RNA(s) or sgRNA(s). The mutations can include the introduction, deletion, or substitution of 1, 5, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or 75 nucleotides at each target sequence of said cell(s) via the guide(s) RNA(s) or sgRNA(s). The mutations can include the introduction, deletion, or substitution of 5, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or 75 nucleotides at each target sequence of said cell(s) via the guide(s) RNA(s) or sgRNA(s). The mutations include the introduction, deletion, or substitution of 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or 75 nucleotides at each target sequence of said cell(s) via the guide(s) RNA(s) or sgRNA(s). The mutations can include the introduction, deletion, or substitution of 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or 75 nucleotides at each target sequence of said cell(s) via the guide(s) RNA(s) or sgRNA(s). The mutations can include the introduction, deletion, or substitution of 40, 45, 50, 75, 100, 200, 300, 400 or 500 nucleotides at each target sequence of said cell(s) via the guide(s) RNA(s) or sgRNA(s).

For minimization of toxicity and off-target effect, control of the concentration of Cas mRNA and guide RNA delivered is considered. Optimal concentrations of Cas mRNA and guide RNA can be determined by testing different concentrations in a cellular or non-human eukaryote animal model and using deep sequencing the analyze the extent of modification at potential off-target genomic loci. Alternatively, to minimize the level of toxicity and off-target effect, Cas nickase mRNA (for example S. pyogenes Cas9 with the D10A mutation) can be delivered with a pair of guide RNAs targeting a site of interest. Guide sequences and strategies to minimize toxicity and off-target effects can be as in WO 2014/093622 (PCT/US2013/074667); or, via mutation as herein.

Typically, in the context of an endogenous CRISPR system, formation of a CRISPR complex (comprising a guide sequence hybridized to a target sequence and complexed with one or more Cas proteins) results in cleavage of one or both strands in or near (e.g. within 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 50, or more base pairs from) the target sequence. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the tracr sequence, which may comprise or consist of all or a portion of a wild-type tracr sequence (e.g. about or more than about 20, 26, 32, 45, 48, 54, 63, 67, 85, or more nucleotides of a wild-type tracr sequence), may also form part of a CRISPR complex, such as by hybridization along at least a portion of the tracr sequence to all or a portion of a tracr mate sequence that is operably linked to the guide sequence.

The location of the RuvCI, RuvCII, RuvCIII and HNH domains is indicated in FIG. 22A-C. As used herein, the term “RuvCI domain” preferably refers to the domain comprising amino acids 1-60 of Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 (SpCas9) or a corresponding region in another Cas9 ortholog or a CRISPR nuclease other than Cas9. As used herein, the term “RuvCII domain” preferably refers to the domain comprising amino acids 718-775 of Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 (SpCas9) or a corresponding region in another Cas9 ortholog or a CRISPR nuclease other than Cas9. As used herein, the term “RuvCIII domain” preferably refers to the domain comprising amino acids 909-1099 of Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 (SpCas9) or a corresponding region in another Cas9 ortholog or a CRISPR nuclease other than Cas9. As used herein, the term “HNH domain” preferably refers to the domain comprising amino acids 776-908 of Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 (SpCas9) or a corresponding region in another Cas9 ortholog or a CRISPR nuclease other than Cas9. The groove between the RuvC and HNH domains refers to the groove between these domain in the three-dimensional structure of a non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzyme as described herein. FIG. 25D shows the Crystal structure of SaCas9 wherein the groove between the HNH and RuvC domains in the three-dimensional structure of SaCas9 is shown.

Aptamers

One guide with a first aptamer/RNA-binding protein pair can be linked or fused to an activator, whilst a second guide with a second aptamer/RNA-binding protein pair can be linked or fused to a repressor. The guides are for different targets (loci), so this allows one gene to be activated and one repressed. For example, the following schematic shows such an approach:

Guide 1—MS2 aptamer-------MS2 RNA-binding protein-------VP64 activator; and Guide 2—PP7 aptamer-------PP7 RNA-binding protein-------SID4× repressor.

The present invention also relates to orthogonal PP7/MS2 gene targeting. In this example, sgRNA targeting different loci are modified with distinct RNA loops in order to recruit MS2-VP64 or PP7-SID4×, which activate and repress their target loci, respectively. PP7 is the RNA-binding coat protein of the bacteriophage Pseudomonas. Like MS2, it binds a specific RNA sequence and secondary structure. The PP7 RNA-recognition motif is distinct from that of MS2. Consequently, PP7 and MS2 can be multiplexed to mediate distinct effects at different genomic loci simultaneously. For example, an sgRNA targeting locus A can be modified with MS2 loops, recruiting MS2-VP64 activators, while another sgRNA targeting locus B can be modified with PP7 loops, recruiting PP7-SID4× repressor domains. In the same cell, dCas9 can thus mediate orthogonal, locus-specific modifications. This principle can be extended to incorporate other orthogonal RNA-binding proteins such as Q-beta.

An alternative option for orthogonal repression includes incorporating non-coding RNA loops with transactive repressive function into the guide (either at similar positions to the MS2/PP7 loops integrated into the guide or at the 3′ terminus of the guide). For instance, guides were designed with non-coding (but known to be repressive) RNA loops (e.g. using the Alu repressor (in RNA) that interferes with RNA polymerase II in mammalian cells). The Alu RNA sequence was located: in place of the MS2 RNA sequences as used herein (e.g. at tetraloop and/or stem loop 2); and/or at 3′ terminus of the guide. This gives possible combinations of MS2, PP7 or Alu at the tetraloop and/or stemloop 2 positions, as well as, optionally, addition of Alu at the 3′ end of the guide (with or without a linker).

The use of two different aptamers (distinct RNA) allows an activator-adaptor protein fusion and a repressor-adaptor protein fusion to be used, with different guides, to activate expression of one gene, whilst repressing another. They, along with their different guides can be administered together, or substantially together, in a multiplexed approach. A large number of such modified guides can be used all at the same time, for example 10 or 20 or 30 and so forth, whilst only one (or at least a minimal number) of Cas9s to be delivered, as a comparatively small number of Cas9s can be used with a large number modified guides. The adaptor protein may be associated (preferably linked or fused to) one or more activators or one or more repressors. For example, the adaptor protein may be associated with a first activator and a second activator. The first and second activators may be the same, but they are preferably different activators. For example, one might be VP64, whilst the other might be p65, although these are just examples and other transcriptional activators are envisaged. Three or more or even four or more activators (or repressors) may be used, but package size may limit the number being higher than 5 different functional domains. Linkers are preferably used, over a direct fusion to the adaptor protein, where two or more functional domains are associated with the adaptor protein. Suitable linkers might include the GlySer linker.

It is also envisaged that the enzyme-guide complex as a whole may be associated with two or more functional domains. For example, there may be two or more functional domains associated with the enzyme, or there may be two or more functional domains associated with the guide (via one or more adaptor proteins), or there may be one or more functional domains associated with the enzyme and one or more functional domains associated with the guide (via one or more adaptor proteins).

The fusion between the adaptor protein and the activator or repressor may include a linker. For example, GlySer linkers GGGS (SEQ ID NO: 1) can be used. They can be used in repeats of 3 ((GGGGS)₃ (SEQ ID NO: 2)) or 6 (SEQ ID NO: 3), 9 (SEQ ID NO: 4) or even 12 (SEQ ID NO: 5) or more, to provide suitable lengths, as required. Linkers can be used between the RNA-binding protein and the functional domain (activator or repressor), or between the CRISPR Enzyme (Cas9) and the functional domain (activator or repressor). The linkers the user to engineer appropriate amounts of “mechanical flexibility”.

Dead Guides: Guide RNAs Comprising a Dead Guide Sequence May be Used in the Present Invention

In one aspect, the invention provides guide sequences which are modified in a manner which allows for formation of the CRISPR complex and successful binding to the target, while at the same time, not allowing for successful nuclease activity (i.e. without nuclease activity/without indel activity). For matters of explanation such modified guide sequences are referred to as “dead guides” or “dead guide sequences”. These dead guides or dead guide sequences can be thought of as catalytically inactive or conformationally inactive with regard to nuclease activity. Nuclease activity may be measured using surveyor analysis or deep sequencing as commonly used in the art, preferably surveyor analysis. Similarly, dead guide sequences may not sufficiently engage in productive base pairing with respect to the ability to promote catalytic activity or to distinguish on-target and off-target binding activity. Briefly, the surveyor assay involves purifying and amplifying a CRISPR target site for a gene and forming heteroduplexes with primers amplifying the CRISPR target site. After re-anneal, the products are treated with SURVEYOR nuclease and SURVEYOR enhancer S (Transgenomics) following the manufacturer's recommended protocols, analyzed on gels, and quantified based upon relative band intensities.

Hence, in a related aspect, the invention provides a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system comprising a functional Cas9 as described herein, and guide RNA (gRNA) wherein the gRNA comprises a dead guide sequence whereby the gRNA is capable of hybridizing to a target sequence such that the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system is directed to a genomic locus of interest in a cell without detectable indel activity resultant from nuclease activity of a non-mutant Cas9 enzyme of the system as detected by a SURVEYOR assay. For shorthand purposes, a gRNA comprising a dead guide sequence whereby the gRNA is capable of hybridizing to a target sequence such that the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system is directed to a genomic locus of interest in a cell without detectable indel activity resultant from nuclease activity of a non-mutant Cas9 enzyme of the system as detected by a SURVEYOR assay is herein termed a “dead gRNA”. It is to be understood that any of the gRNAs according to the invention as described herein elsewhere may be used as dead gRNAs/gRNAs comprising a dead guide sequence as described herein below. Any of the methods, products, compositions and uses as described herein elsewhere is equally applicable with the dead gRNAs/gRNAs comprising a dead guide sequence as further detailed below. By means of further guidance, the following particular aspects and embodiments are provided.

The ability of a dead guide sequence to direct sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR complex to a target sequence may be assessed by any suitable assay. For example, the components of a CRISPR system sufficient to form a CRISPR complex, including the dead guide sequence to be tested, may be provided to a host cell having the corresponding target sequence, such as by transfection with vectors encoding the components of the CRISPR sequence, followed by an assessment of preferential cleavage within the target sequence, such as by Surveyor assay as described herein. Similarly, cleavage of a target polynucleotide sequence may be evaluated in a test tube by providing the target sequence, components of a CRISPR complex, including the dead guide sequence to be tested and a control guide sequence different from the test dead guide sequence, and comparing binding or rate of cleavage at the target sequence between the test and control guide sequence reactions. Other assays are possible, and will occur to those skilled in the art. A dead guide sequence may be selected to target any target sequence. In some embodiments, the target sequence is a sequence within a genome of a cell.

As explained further herein, several structural parameters allow for a proper framework to arrive at such dead guides. Dead guide sequences are shorter than respective guide sequences which result in active Cas9-specific indel formation. Dead guides are 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, shorter than respective guides directed to the same Cas9 leading to active Cas9-specific indel formation.

As explained below and known in the art, one aspect of gRNA-Cas9 specificity is the direct repeat sequence, which is to be appropriately linked to such guides. In particular, this implies that the direct repeat sequences are designed dependent on the origin of the Cas9. Thus, structural data available for validated dead guide sequences may be used for designing Cas9 specific equivalents. Structural similarity between, e.g., the orthologous nuclease domains RuvC of two or more Cas9 effector proteins may be used to transfer design equivalent dead guides. Thus, the dead guide herein may be appropriately modified in length and sequence to reflect such Cas9 specific equivalents, allowing for formation of the CRISPR complex and successful binding to the target, while at the same time, not allowing for successful nuclease activity.

The use of dead guides in the context herein as well as the state of the art provides a surprising and unexpected platform for network biology and/or systems biology in both in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo applications, allowing for multiplex gene targeting, and in particular bidirectional multiplex gene targeting. Prior to the use of dead guides, addressing multiple targets, for example for activation, repression and/or silencing of gene activity, has been challenging and in some cases not possible. With the use of dead guides, multiple targets, and thus multiple activities, may be addressed, for example, in the same cell, in the same animal, or in the same patient. Such multiplexing may occur at the same time or staggered for a desired timeframe.

For example, the dead guides now allow for the first time to use gRNA as a means for gene targeting, without the consequence of nuclease activity, while at the same time providing directed means for activation or repression. Guide RNA comprising a dead guide may be modified to further include elements in a manner which allow for activation or repression of gene activity, in particular protein adaptors (e.g. aptamers) as described herein elsewhere allowing for functional placement of gene effectors (e.g. activators or repressors of gene activity). One example is the incorporation of aptamers, as explained herein and in the state of the art. By engineering the gRNA comprising a dead guide to incorporate protein-interacting aptamers (Konermann et al., “Genome-scale transcription activation by an engineered CRISPR-Cas9 complex,” doi:10.1038/nature14136, incorporated herein by reference), one may assemble a synthetic transcription activation complex consisting of multiple distinct effector domains. Such may be modeled after natural transcription activation processes. For example, an aptamer, which selectively binds an effector (e.g. an activator or repressor; dimerized MS2 bacteriophage coat proteins as fusion proteins with an activator or repressor), or a protein which itself binds an effector (e.g. activator or repressor) may be appended to a dead gRNA tetraloop and/or a stem-loop 2. In the case of MS2, the fusion protein MS2-VP64 binds to the tetraloop and/or stem-loop 2 and in turn mediates transcriptional up-regulation, for example for Neurog2. Other transcriptional activators are, for example, VP64. P65, HSF1, and MyoD1. By mere example of this concept, replacement of the MS2 stem-loops with PP7-interacting stem-loops may be used to recruit repressive elements.

Thus, one aspect is a gRNA of the invention which comprises a dead guide, wherein the gRNA further comprises modifications which provide for gene activation or repression, as described herein. The dead gRNA may comprise one or more aptamers. The aptamers may be specific to gene effectors, gene activators or gene repressors. Alternatively, the aptamers may be specific to a protein which in turn is specific to and recruits/binds a specific gene effector, gene activator or gene repressor. If there are multiple sites for activator or repressor recruitment, it is preferred that the sites are specific to either activators or repressors. If there are multiple sites for activator or repressor binding, the sites may be specific to the same activators or same repressors. The sites may also be specific to different activators or different repressors. The gene effectors, gene activators, gene repressors may be present in the form of fusion proteins.

In an embodiment, the dead gRNA as described herein or the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex as described herein includes a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition comprising two or more adaptor proteins, wherein each protein is associated with one or more functional domains and wherein the adaptor protein binds to the distinct RNA sequence(s) inserted into the at least one loop of the dead gRNA.

Hence, an aspect provides a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition comprising a guide RNA (gRNA) comprising a dead guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell, wherein the dead guide sequence is as defined herein, a Cas9 comprising at least one or more nuclear localization sequences, wherein the Cas9 optionally comprises at least one mutation wherein at least one loop of the dead gRNA is modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins, and wherein the adaptor protein is associated with one or more functional domains; or, wherein the dead gRNA is modified to have at least one non-coding functional loop, and wherein the composition comprises two or more adaptor proteins, wherein the each protein is associated with one or more functional domains.

In certain embodiments, the adaptor protein is a fusion protein comprising the functional domain, the fusion protein optionally comprising a linker between the adaptor protein and the functional domain, the linker optionally including a GlySer linker.

In certain embodiments, the at least one loop of the dead gRNA is not modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to the two or more adaptor proteins.

In certain embodiments, the one or more functional domains associated with the adaptor protein is a transcriptional activation domain.

In certain embodiments, the one or more functional domains associated with the adaptor protein is a transcriptional activation domain comprising VP64, p65, MyoD1, HSF1, RTA or SET7/9.

In certain embodiments, the one or more functional domains associated with the adaptor protein is a transcriptional repressor domain.

In certain embodiments, the transcriptional repressor domain is a KRAB domain.

In certain embodiments, the transcriptional repressor domain is a NuE domain, NcoR domain, SID domain or a SID4× domain.

In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more functional domains associated with the adaptor protein have one or more activities comprising methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, DNA integration activity RNA cleavage activity, DNA cleavage activity or nucleic acid binding activity.

In certain embodiments, the DNA cleavage activity is due to a Fok1 nuclease.

In certain embodiments, the dead gRNA is modified so that, after dead gRNA binds the adaptor protein and further binds to the Cas9 and target, the functional domain is in a spatial orientation allowing for the functional domain to function in its attributed function.

In certain embodiments, the at least one loop of the dead gRNA is tetra loop and/or loop2. In certain embodiments, the tetra loop and loop 2 of the dead gRNA are modified by the insertion of the distinct RNA sequence(s).

In certain embodiments, the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins is an aptamer sequence. In certain embodiments, the aptamer sequence is two or more aptamer sequences specific to the same adaptor protein. In certain embodiments, the aptamer sequence is two or more aptamer sequences specific to different adaptor protein.

In certain embodiments, the adaptor protein comprises MS2, PP7, Qβ, F2, GA, fr, JP501, M12, R17, BZ13, JP34, JP500, KU1, M11, MX1, TW18, VK, SP, FI, ID2, NL95, TW19, AP205, ϕCb5, ϕCb8r, ϕCb12r, ϕCb23r, 7s, PRR1.

In certain embodiments, the cell is a eukaryotic cell. In certain embodiments, the eukaryotic cell is a mammalian cell, optionally a mouse cell. In certain embodiments, the mammalian cell is a human cell.

In certain embodiments, a first adaptor protein is associated with a p65 domain and a second adaptor protein is associated with a HSF1 domain.

In certain embodiments, the composition comprises a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex having at least three functional domains, at least one of which is associated with the Cas9 and at least two of which are associated with dead gRNA.

In certain embodiments, the composition further comprises a second gRNA, wherein the second gRNA is a live gRNA capable of hybridizing to a second target sequence such that a second Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system is directed to a second genomic locus of interest in a cell with detectable indel activity at the second genomic locus resultant from nuclease activity of the Cas9 enzyme of the system.

In certain embodiments, the composition further comprises a plurality of dead gRNAs and/or a plurality of live gRNAs.

One aspect of the invention is to take advantage of the modularity and customizability of the gRNA scaffold to establish a series of gRNA scaffolds with different binding sites (in particular aptamers) for recruiting distinct types of effectors in an orthogonal manner. Again, for matters of example and illustration of the broader concept, replacement of the MS2 stem-loops with PP7-interacting stem-loops may be used to bind/recruit repressive elements, enabling multiplexed bidirectional transcriptional control. Thus, in general, gRNA comprising a dead guide may be employed to provide for multiplex transcriptional control and preferred bidirectional transcriptional control. This transcriptional control is most preferred of genes. For example, one or more gRNA comprising dead guide(s) may be employed in targeting the activation of one or more target genes. At the same time, one or more gRNA comprising dead guide(s) may be employed in targeting the repression of one or more target genes. Such a sequence may be applied in a variety of different combinations, for example the target genes are first repressed and then at an appropriate period other targets are activated, or select genes are repressed at the same time as select genes are activated, followed by further activation and/or repression. As a result, multiple components of one or more biological systems may advantageously be addressed together.

In an aspect, the invention provides nucleic acid molecule(s) encoding dead gRNA or the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex or the composition as described herein.

In an aspect, the invention provides a vector system comprising: a nucleic acid molecule encoding dead guide RNA as defined herein. In certain embodiments, the vector system further comprises a nucleic acid molecule(s) encoding Cas9. In certain embodiments, the vector system further comprises a nucleic acid molecule(s) encoding (live) gRNA. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acid molecule or the vector further comprises regulatory element(s) operable in a eukaryotic cell operably linked to the nucleic acid molecule encoding the guide sequence (gRNA) and/or the nucleic acid molecule encoding Cas9 and/or the optional nuclear localization sequence(s).

In another aspect, structural analysis may also be used to study interactions between the dead guide and the active Cas9 nuclease that enable DNA binding, but no DNA cutting. In this way amino acids important for nuclease activity of Cas9 are determined. Modification of such amino acids allows for improved Cas9 enzymes used for gene editing.

A further aspect is combining the use of dead guides as explained herein with other applications of CRISPR, as explained herein as well as known in the art. For example, gRNA comprising dead guide(s) for targeted multiplex gene activation or repression or targeted multiplex bidirectional gene activation/repression may be combined with gRNA comprising guides which maintain nuclease activity, as explained herein. Such gRNA comprising guides which maintain nuclease activity may or may not further include modifications which allow for repression of gene activity (e.g. aptamers). Such gRNA comprising guides which maintain nuclease activity may or may not further include modifications which allow for activation of gene activity (e.g. aptamers). In such a manner, a further means for multiplex gene control is introduced (e.g. multiplex gene targeted activation without nuclease activity/without indel activity may be provided at the same time or in combination with gene targeted repression with nuclease activity).

For example, 1) using one or more gRNA (e.g. 1-50, 1-40, 1-30, 1-20, preferably 1-10, more preferably 1-5) comprising dead guide(s) targeted to one or more genes and further modified with appropriate aptamers for the recruitment of gene activators; 2) may be combined with one or more gRNA (e.g. 1-50, 1-40, 1-30, 1-20, preferably 1-10, more preferably 1-5) comprising dead guide(s) targeted to one or more genes and further modified with appropriate aptamers for the recruitment of gene repressors. 1) and/or 2) may then be combined with 3) one or more gRNA (e.g. 1-50, 1-40, 1-30, 1-20, preferably 1-10, more preferably 1-5) targeted to one or more genes. This combination can then be carried out in turn with 1)+2)+3) with 4) one or more gRNA (e.g. 1-50, 1-40, 1-30, 1-20, preferably 1-10, more preferably 1-5) targeted to one or more genes and further modified with appropriate aptamers for the recruitment of gene activators. This combination can then be carried in turn with 1)+2)+3)+4) with 5) one or more gRNA (e.g. 1-50, 1-40, 1-30, 1-20, preferably 1-10, more preferably 1-5) targeted to one or more genes and further modified with appropriate aptamers for the recruitment of gene repressors. As a result various uses and combinations are included in the invention. For example, combination 1)+2); combination 1)+3); combination 2)+3); combination 1)+2)+3); combination 1)+2)+3)+4); combination 1)+3)+4); combination 2)+3)+4); combination 1)+2)+4); combination 1)+2)+3)+4)+5); combination 1)+3)+4)+5); combination 2)+3)+4)+5); combination 1)+2)+4)+5); combination 1)+2)+3)+5); combination 1)+3)+5); combination 2)+3)+5); combination 1)+2)+5).

In an aspect, the invention provides an algorithm for designing, evaluating, or selecting a dead guide RNA targeting sequence (dead guide sequence) for guiding a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system to a target gene locus. In particular, it has been determined that dead guide RNA specificity relates to and can be optimized by varying i) GC content and ii) targeting sequence length. In an aspect, the invention provides an algorithm for designing or evaluating a dead guide RNA targeting sequence that minimizes off-target binding or interaction of the dead guide RNA. In an embodiment of the invention, the algorithm for selecting a dead guide RNA targeting sequence for directing a CRISPR system to a gene locus in an organism comprises a) locating one or more CRISPR motifs in the gene locus, analyzing the 20 nt sequence downstream of each CRISPR motif by i) determining the GC content of the sequence; and ii) determining whether there are off-target matches of the 15 downstream nucleotides nearest to the CRISPR motif in the genome of the organism, and c) selecting the 15 nucleotide sequence for use in a dead guide RNA if the GC content of the sequence is 70% or less and no off-target matches are identified. In an embodiment, the sequence is selected for a targeting sequence if the GC content is 60% or less. In certain embodiments, the sequence is selected for a targeting sequence if the GC content is 55% or less, 50% or less, 45% or less, 40% or less, 35% or less or 30% or less. In an embodiment, two or more sequences of the gene locus are analyzed and the sequence having the lowest GC content, or the next lowest GC content, or the next lowest GC content is selected. In an embodiment, the sequence is selected for a targeting sequence if no off-target matches are identified in the genome of the organism. In an embodiment, the targeting sequence is selected if no off-target matches are identified in regulatory sequences of the genome.

In an aspect, the invention provides a method of selecting a dead guide RNA targeting sequence for directing a functionalized CRISPR system to a gene locus in an organism, which comprises: a) locating one or more CRISPR motifs in the gene locus; b) analyzing the 20 nt sequence downstream of each CRISPR motif by: i) determining the GC content of the sequence; and ii) determining whether there are off-target matches of the first 15 nt of the sequence in the genome of the organism; c) selecting the sequence for use in a guide RNA if the GC content of the sequence is 70% or less and no off-target matches are identified. In an embodiment, the sequence is selected if the GC content is 50% or less. In an embodiment, the sequence is selected if the GC content is 40% or less. In an embodiment, the sequence is selected if the GC content is 30% or less. In an embodiment, two or more sequences are analyzed and the sequence having the lowest GC content is selected. In an embodiment, off-target matches are determined in regulatory sequences of the organism. In an embodiment, the gene locus is a regulatory region. An aspect provides a dead guide RNA comprising the targeting sequence selected according to the aforementioned methods.

In an aspect, the invention provides a dead guide RNA for targeting a functionalized CRISPR system to a gene locus in an organism. In an embodiment of the invention, the dead guide RNA comprises a targeting sequence wherein the CG content of the target sequence is 70% or less, and the first 15 nt of the targeting sequence does not match an off-target sequence downstream from a CRISPR motif in the regulatory sequence of another gene locus in the organism. In certain embodiments, the GC content of the targeting sequence 60% or less, 55% or less, 50% or less, 45% or less, 40% or less, 35% or less or 30% or less. In certain embodiments, the GC content of the targeting sequence is from 70% to 60% or from 60% to 50% or from 50% to 40% or from 40% to 30%. In an embodiment, the targeting sequence has the lowest CG content among potential targeting sequences of the locus.

In an embodiment of the invention, the first 15 nt of the dead guide match the target sequence. In another embodiment, first 14 nt of the dead guide match the target sequence. In another embodiment, the first 13 nt of the dead guide match the target sequence. In another embodiment first 12 nt of the dead guide match the target sequence. In another embodiment, first 11 nt of the dead guide match the target sequence. In another embodiment, the first 10 nt of the dead guide match the target sequence. In an embodiment of the invention the first 15 nt of the dead guide does not match an off-target sequence downstream from a CRISPR motif in the regulatory region of another gene locus. In other embodiments, the first 14 nt, or the first 13 nt of the dead guide, or the first 12 nt of the guide, or the first 11 nt of the dead guide, or the first 10 nt of the dead guide, does not match an off-target sequence downstream from a CRISPR motif in the regulatory region of another gene locus. In other embodiments, the first 15 nt, or 14 nt, or 13 nt, or 12 nt, or 11 nt of the dead guide do not match an off-target sequence downstream from a CRISPR motif in the genome.

In certain embodiments, the dead guide RNA includes additional nucleotides at the 3′-end that do not match the target sequence. Thus, a dead guide RNA that includes the first 15 nt, or 14 nt, or 13 nt, or 12 nt, or 11 nt downstream of a CRISPR motif can be extended in length at the 3′ end to 12 nt, 13 nt, 14 nt, 15 nt, 16 nt, 17 nt, 18 nt, 19 nt, 20 nt, or longer.

The invention provides a method for directing a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, including but not limited to a dead Cas9 (dCas9) or functionalized Cas9 system (which may comprise a functionalized Cas9 or functionalized guide) to a gene locus. In an aspect, the invention provides a method for selecting a dead guide RNA targeting sequence and directing a functionalized CRISPR system to a gene locus in an organism. In an aspect, the invention provides a method for selecting a dead guide RNA targeting sequence and effecting gene regulation of a target gene locus by a functionalized Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system. In certain embodiments, the method is used to effect target gene regulation while minimizing off-target effects. In an aspect, the invention provides a method for selecting two or more dead guide RNA targeting sequences and effecting gene regulation of two or more target gene loci by a functionalized Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system. In certain embodiments, the method is used to effect regulation of two or more target gene loci while minimizing off-target effects.

In an aspect, the invention provides a method of selecting a dead guide RNA targeting sequence for directing a functionalized Cas9 to a gene locus in an organism, which comprises: a) locating one or more CRISPR motifs in the gene locus; b) analyzing the sequence downstream of each CRISPR motif by: i) selecting 10 to 15 nt adjacent to the CRISPR motif, ii) determining the GC content of the sequence; and c) selecting the 10 to 15 nt sequence as a targeting sequence for use in a guide RNA if the GC content of the sequence is 40% or more. In an embodiment, the sequence is selected if the GC content is 50% or more. In an embodiment, the sequence is selected if the GC content is 60% or more. In an embodiment, the sequence is selected if the GC content is 70% or more. In an embodiment, two or more sequences are analyzed and the sequence having the highest GC content is selected. In an embodiment, the method further comprises adding nucleotides to the 3′ end of the selected sequence which do not match the sequence downstream of the CRISPR motif. An aspect provides a dead guide RNA comprising the targeting sequence selected according to the aforementioned methods.

In an aspect, the invention provides a dead guide RNA for directing a functionalized CRISPR system to a gene locus in an organism wherein the targeting sequence of the dead guide RNA consists of 10 to 15 nucleotides adjacent to the CRISPR motif of the gene locus, wherein the CG content of the target sequence is 50% or more. In certain embodiments, the dead guide RNA further comprises nucleotides added to the 3′ end of the targeting sequence which do not match the sequence downstream of the CRISPR motif of the gene locus.

In an aspect, the invention provides for a single effector to be directed to one or more, or two or more gene loci. In certain embodiments, the effector is associated with a Cas9, and one or more, or two or more selected dead guide RNAs are used to direct the Cas9-associated effector to one or more, or two or more selected target gene loci. In certain embodiments, the effector is associated with one or more, or two or more selected dead guide RNAs, each selected dead guide RNA, when complexed with a Cas9 enzyme, causing its associated effector to localize to the dead guide RNA target. One non-limiting example of such CRISPR systems modulates activity of one or more, or two or more gene loci subject to regulation by the same transcription factor.

In an aspect, the invention provides for two or more effectors to be directed to one or more gene loci. In certain embodiments, two or more dead guide RNAs are employed, each of the two or more effectors being associated with a selected dead guide RNA, with each of the two or more effectors being localized to the selected target of its dead guide RNA. One non-limiting example of such CRISPR systems modulates activity of one or more, or two or more gene loci subject to regulation by different transcription factors. Thus, in one non-limiting embodiment, two or more transcription factors are localized to different regulatory sequences of a single gene. In another non-limiting embodiment, two or more transcription factors are localized to different regulatory sequences of different genes. In certain embodiments, one transcription factor is an activator. In certain embodiments, one transcription factor is an inhibitor. In certain embodiments, one transcription factor is an activator and another transcription factor is an inhibitor. In certain embodiments, gene loci expressing different components of the same regulatory pathway are regulated. In certain embodiments, gene loci expressing components of different regulatory pathways are regulated.

In an aspect, the invention also provides a method and algorithm for designing and selecting dead guide RNAs that are specific for target DNA cleavage or target binding and gene regulation mediated by an active Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system. In certain embodiments, the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system provides orthogonal gene control using an active Cas9 which cleaves target DNA at one gene locus while at the same time binds to and promotes regulation of another gene locus.

In an aspect, the invention provides an method of selecting a dead guide RNA targeting sequence for directing a functionalized Cas9 to a gene locus in an organism, without cleavage, which comprises a) locating one or more CRISPR motifs in the gene locus; b) analyzing the sequence downstream of each CRISPR motif by i) selecting 10 to 15 nt adjacent to the CRISPR motif, ii) determining the GC content of the sequence, and c) selecting the 10 to 15 nt sequence as a targeting sequence for use in a dead guide RNA if the GC content of the sequence is 30% more, 40% or more. In certain embodiments, the GC content of the targeting sequence is 35% or more, 40% or more, 45% or more, 50% or more, 55% or more, 60% or more, 65% or more, or 70% or more. In certain embodiments, the GC content of the targeting sequence is from 30% to 40% or from 40% to 50% or from 50% to 60% or from 60% to 70%. In an embodiment of the invention, two or more sequences in a gene locus are analyzed and the sequence having the highest GC content is selected.

In an embodiment of the invention, the portion of the targeting sequence in which GC content is evaluated is 10 to 15 contiguous nucleotides of the 15 target nucleotides nearest to the PAM. In an embodiment of the invention, the portion of the guide in which GC content is considered is the 10 to 11 nucleotides or 11 to 12 nucleotides or 12 to 13 nucleotides or 13, or 14, or 15 contiguous nucleotides of the 15 nucleotides nearest to the PAM.

In an aspect, the invention further provides an algorithm for identifying dead guide RNAs which promote CRISPR system gene locus cleavage while avoiding functional activation or inhibition. It is observed that increased GC content in dead guide RNAs of 16 to 20 nucleotides coincides with increased DNA cleavage and reduced functional activation.

It is also demonstrated herein that efficiency of functionalized Cas9 can be increased by addition of nucleotides to the 3′ end of a guide RNA which do not match a target sequence downstream of the CRISPR motif. For example, of dead guide RNA 11 to 15 nt in length, shorter guides may be less likely to promote target cleavage, but are also less efficient at promoting CRISPR system binding and functional control. In certain embodiments, addition of nucleotides that don't match the target sequence to the 3′ end of the dead guide RNA increase activation efficiency while not increasing undesired target cleavage. In an aspect, the invention also provides a method and algorithm for identifying improved dead guide RNAs that effectively promote CRISPRP system function in DNA binding and gene regulation while not promoting DNA cleavage. Thus, in certain embodiments, the invention provides a dead guide RNA that includes the first 15 nt, or 14 nt, or 13 nt, or 12 nt, or 11 nt downstream of a CRISPR motif and is extended in length at the 3′ end by nucleotides that mismatch the target to 12 nt, 13 nt, 14 nt, 15 nt, 16 nt, 17 nt, 18 nt, 19 nt, 20 nt, or longer.

In an aspect, the invention provides a method for effecting selective orthogonal gene control. As will be appreciated from the disclosure herein, dead guide selection according to the invention, taking into account guide length and GC content, provides effective and selective transcription control by a functional Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, for example to regulate transcription of a gene locus by activation or inhibition and minimize off-target effects. Accordingly, by providing effective regulation of individual target loci, the invention also provides effective orthogonal regulation of two or more target loci.

In certain embodiments, orthogonal gene control is by activation or inhibition of two or more target loci. In certain embodiments, orthogonal gene control is by activation or inhibition of one or more target locus and cleavage of one or more target locus.

In one aspect, the invention provides a cell comprising a non-naturally occurring Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system comprising one or more dead guide RNAs disclosed or made according to a method or algorithm described herein wherein the expression of one or more gene products has been altered. In an embodiment of the invention, the expression in the cell of two or more gene products has been altered. The invention also provides a cell line from such a cell.

In one aspect, the invention provides a multicellular organism comprising one or more cells comprising a non-naturally occurring Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system comprising one or more dead guide RNAs disclosed or made according to a method or algorithm described herein. In one aspect, the invention provides a product from a cell, cell line, or multicellular organism comprising a non-naturally occurring Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system comprising one or more dead guide RNAs disclosed or made according to a method or algorithm described herein.

A further aspect of this invention is the use of gRNA comprising dead guide(s) as described herein, optionally in combination with gRNA comprising guide(s) as described herein or in the state of the art, in combination with systems e.g. cells, transgenic animals, transgenic mice, inducible transgenic animals, inducible transgenic mice) which are engineered for either overexpression of Cas9 or preferably knock in Cas9. As a result a single system (e.g. transgenic animal, cell) can serve as a basis for multiplex gene modifications in systems/network biology. On account of the dead guides, this is now possible in both in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo.

For example, once the Cas9 is provided for, one or more dead gRNAs may be provided to direct multiplex gene regulation, and preferably multiplex bidirectional gene regulation. The one or more dead gRNAs may be provided in a spatially and temporally appropriate manner if necessary or desired (for example tissue specific induction of Cas9 expression). On account that the transgenic/inducible Cas9 is provided for (e.g. expressed) in the cell, tissue, animal of interest, both gRNAs comprising dead guides or gRNAs comprising guides are equally effective. In the same manner, a further aspect of this invention is the use of gRNA comprising dead guide(s) as described herein, optionally in combination with gRNA comprising guide(s) as described herein or in the state of the art, in combination with systems (e.g. cells, transgenic animals, transgenic mice, inducible transgenic animals, inducible transgenic mice) which are engineered for knockout Cas9 CRISPR-Cas.

As a result, the combination of dead guides as described herein with CRISPR applications described herein and CRISPR applications known in the art results in a highly efficient and accurate means for multiplex screening of systems (e.g. network biology). Such screening allows, for example, identification of specific combinations of gene activities for identifying genes responsible for diseases (e.g. on/off combinations), in particular gene related diseases. A preferred application of such screening is cancer. In the same manner, screening for treatment for such diseases is included in the invention. Cells or animals may be exposed to aberrant conditions resulting in disease or disease like effects. Candidate compositions may be provided and screened for an effect in the desired multiplex environment. For example a patient's cancer cells may be screened for which gene combinations will cause them to die, and then use this information to establish appropriate therapies.

In one aspect, the invention provides a kit comprising one or more of the components described herein. The kit may include dead guides as described herein with or without guides as described herein.

The structural information provided herein allows for interrogation of dead gRNA interaction with the target DNA and the Cas9 permitting engineering or alteration of dead gRNA structure to optimize functionality of the entire Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system. For example, loops of the dead gRNA may be extended, without colliding with the Cas9 protein by the insertion of adaptor proteins that can bind to RNA. These adaptor proteins can further recruit effector proteins or fusions which comprise one or more functional domains.

In some preferred embodiments, the functional domain is a transcriptional activation domain, preferably VP64. In some embodiments, the functional domain is a transcription repression domain, preferably KRAB. In some embodiments, the transcription repression domain is SID, or concatemers of SID (e.g. SID4×). In some embodiments, the functional domain is an epigenetic modifying domain, such that an epigenetic modifying enzyme is provided. In some embodiments, the functional domain is an activation domain, which may be the P65 activation domain.

An aspect of the invention is that the above elements are comprised in a single composition or comprised in individual compositions. These compositions may advantageously be applied to a host to elicit a functional effect on the genomic level.

In general, the dead gRNA are modified in a manner that provides specific binding sites (e.g. aptamers) for adapter proteins comprising one or more functional domains (e.g. via fusion protein) to bind to. The modified dead gRNA are modified such that once the dead gRNA forms a CRISPR complex (i.e. Cas9 binding to dead gRNA and target) the adapter proteins bind and, the functional domain on the adapter protein is positioned in a spatial orientation which is advantageous for the attributed function to be effective. For example, if the functional domain is a transcription activator (e.g. VP64 or p65), the transcription activator is placed in a spatial orientation which allows it to affect the transcription of the target. Likewise, a transcription repressor will be advantageously positioned to affect the transcription of the target and a nuclease (e.g. Fok1) will be advantageously positioned to cleave or partially cleave the target.

The skilled person will understand that modifications to the dead gRNA which allow for binding of the adapter+functional domain but not proper positioning of the adapter+functional domain (e.g. due to steric hindrance within the three dimensional structure of the CRISPR complex) are modifications which are not intended. The one or more modified dead gRNA may be modified at the tetra loop, the stem loop 1, stem loop 2, or stem loop 3, as described herein, preferably at either the tetra loop or stem loop 2, and most preferably at both the tetra loop and stem loop 2.

As explained herein the functional domains may be, for example, one or more domains from the group consisting of methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, RNA cleavage activity, DNA cleavage activity, nucleic acid binding activity, and molecular switches (e.g. light inducible). In some cases it is advantageous that additionally at least one NLS is provided. In some instances, it is advantageous to position the NLS at the N terminus. When more than one functional domain is included, the functional domains may be the same or different.

The dead gRNA may be designed to include multiple binding recognition sites (e.g. aptamers) specific to the same or different adapter protein. The dead gRNA may be designed to bind to the promoter region −1000-+1 nucleic acids upstream of the transcription start site (i.e. TSS), preferably −200 nucleic acids. This positioning improves functional domains which affect gene activation (e.g. transcription activators) or gene inhibition (e.g. transcription repressors). The modified dead gRNA may be one or more modified dead gRNAs targeted to one or more target loci (e.g. at least 1 gRNA, at least 2 gRNA, at least 5 gRNA, at least 10 gRNA, at least 20 gRNA, at least 30 gRNA, at least 50 gRNA) comprised in a composition.

The adaptor protein may be any number of proteins that binds to an aptamer or recognition site introduced into the modified dead gRNA and which allows proper positioning of one or more functional domains, once the dead gRNA has been incorporated into the CRISPR complex, to affect the target with the attributed function. As explained in detail in this application such may be coat proteins, preferably bacteriophage coat proteins. The functional domains associated with such adaptor proteins (e.g. in the form of fusion protein) may include, for example, one or more domains from the group consisting of methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, RNA cleavage activity, DNA cleavage activity, nucleic acid binding activity, and molecular switches (e.g. light inducible). Preferred domains are Fok1, VP64, P65, HSF1, MyoD1. In the event that the functional domain is a transcription activator or transcription repressor it is advantageous that additionally at least an NLS is provided and preferably at the N terminus. When more than one functional domain is included, the functional domains may be the same or different. The adaptor protein may utilize known linkers to attach such functional domains.

Thus, the modified dead gRNA, the (inactivated) Cas9 (with or without functional domains), and the binding protein with one or more functional domains, may each individually be comprised in a composition and administered to a host individually or collectively. Alternatively, these components may be provided in a single composition for administration to a host. Administration to a host may be performed via viral vectors known to the skilled person or described herein for delivery to a host (e.g. lentiviral vector, adenoviral vector, AAV vector). As explained herein, use of different selection markers (e.g. for lentiviral gRNA selection) and concentration of gRNA (e.g. dependent on whether multiple gRNAs are used) may be advantageous for eliciting an improved effect.

On the basis of this concept, several variations are appropriate to elicit a genomic locus event, including DNA cleavage, gene activation, or gene deactivation. Using the provided compositions, the person skilled in the art can advantageously and specifically target single or multiple loci with the same or different functional domains to elicit one or more genomic locus events. The compositions may be applied in a wide variety of methods for screening in libraries in cells and functional modeling in vivo (e.g. gene activation of lincRNA and identification of function; gain-of-function modeling; loss-of-function modeling; the use the compositions of the invention to establish cell lines and transgenic animals for optimization and screening purposes).

The current invention comprehends the use of the compositions of the current invention to establish and utilize conditional or inducible CRISPR transgenic cell/animals, which are not believed prior to the present invention or application. For example, the target cell comprises Cas9 conditionally or inducibly (e.g. in the form of Cre dependent constructs) and/or the adapter protein conditionally or inducibly and, on expression of a vector introduced into the target cell, the vector expresses that which induces or gives rise to the condition of Cas9 expression and/or adaptor expression in the target cell. By applying the teaching and compositions of the current invention with the known method of creating a CRISPR complex, inducible genomic events affected by functional domains are also an aspect of the current invention. One example of this is the creation of a CRISPR knock-in/conditional transgenic animal (e.g. mouse comprising e.g. a Lox-Stop-polyA-Lox (LSL) cassette) and subsequent delivery of one or more compositions providing one or more modified dead gRNA (e.g. −200 nucleotides to TSS of a target gene of interest for gene activation purposes) as described herein (e.g. modified dead gRNA with one or more aptamers recognized by coat proteins, e.g. MS2), one or more adapter proteins as described herein (MS2 binding protein linked to one or more VP64) and means for inducing the conditional animal (e.g. Cre recombinase for rendering Cas9 expression inducible). Alternatively, the adaptor protein may be provided as a conditional or inducible element with a conditional or inducible Cas9 to provide an effective model for screening purposes, which advantageously only requires minimal design and administration of specific dead gRNAs for a broad number of applications.

In another aspect the dead guides are further modified to improve specificity. Protected dead guides may be synthesized, whereby secondary structure is introduced into the 3′ end of the dead guide to improve its specificity. A protected guide RNA (pgRNA) comprises a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell and a protector strand, wherein the protector strand is optionally complementary to the guide sequence and wherein the guide sequence may in part be hybridizable to the protector strand. The pgRNA optionally includes an extension sequence. The thermodynamics of the pgRNA-target DNA hybridization is determined by the number of bases complementary between the guide RNA and target DNA. By employing ‘thermodynamic protection’, specificity of dead gRNA can be improved by adding a protector sequence. For example, one method adds a complementary protector strand of varying lengths to the 3′ end of the guide sequence within the dead gRNA. As a result, the protector strand is bound to at least a portion of the dead gRNA and provides for a protected gRNA (pgRNA). In turn, the dead gRNA references herein may be easily protected using the described embodiments, resulting in pgRNA. The protector strand can be either a separate RNA transcript or strand or a chimeric version joined to the 3′ end of the dead gRNA guide sequence.

Tandem Guides and Uses in a Multiplex (Tandem) Targeting Approach

The inventors have shown that CRISPR enzymes as defined herein can employ more than one RNA guide without losing activity. This enables the use of the CRISPR enzymes, systems or complexes as defined herein for targeting multiple DNA targets, genes or gene loci, with a single enzyme, system or complex as defined herein. The guide RNAs may be tandemly arranged, optionally separated by a nucleotide sequence such as a direct repeat as defined herein. The position of the different guide RNAs is the tandem does not influence the activity. It is noted that the terms “CRISPR-Cas system”, “CRISP-Cas complex” “CRISPR complex” and “CRISPR system” are used interchangeably. Also the terms “CRISPR enzyme”, “Cas enzyme”, or “CRISPR-Cas enzyme”, can be used interchangeably. In preferred embodiments, said CRISPR enzyme, CRISP-Cas enzyme or Cas enzyme is Cas9, or any one of the modified or mutated variants thereof described herein elsewhere.

In one aspect, the invention provides a non-naturally occurring or engineered CRISPR enzyme, preferably a class 2 CRISPR enzyme, preferably a Type V or VI CRISPR enzyme as described herein, such as without limitation Cas9 as described herein elsewhere, used for tandem or multiplex targeting. It is to be understood that any of the CRISPR (or CRISPR-Cas or Cas) enzymes, complexes, or systems according to the invention as described herein elsewhere may be used in such an approach. Any of the methods, products, compositions and uses as described herein elsewhere are equally applicable with the multiplex or tandem targeting approach further detailed below. By means of further guidance, the following particular aspects and embodiments are provided.

In one aspect, the invention provides for the use of a Cas9 enzyme, complex or system as defined herein for targeting multiple gene loci. In one embodiment, this can be established by using multiple (tandem or multiplex) guide RNA (gRNA) sequences.

In one aspect, the invention provides methods for using one or more elements of a Cas9 enzyme, complex or system as defined herein for tandem or multiplex targeting, wherein said CRISP system comprises multiple guide RNA sequences. Preferably, said gRNA sequences are separated by a nucleotide sequence, such as a direct repeat as defined herein elsewhere.

The Cas9 enzyme, system or complex as defined herein provides an effective means for modifying multiple target polynucleotides. The Cas9 enzyme, system or complex as defined herein has a wide variety of utility including modifying (e.g., deleting, inserting, translocating, inactivating, activating) one or more target polynucleotides in a multiplicity of cell types. As such the Cas9 enzyme, system or complex as defined herein of the invention has a broad spectrum of applications in, e.g., gene therapy, drug screening, disease diagnosis, and prognosis, including targeting multiple gene loci within a single CRISPR system.

In one aspect, the invention provides a Cas9 enzyme, system or complex as defined herein, i.e. a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex having a Cas9 protein having at least one destabilization domain associated therewith, and multiple guide RNAs that target multiple nucleic acid molecules such as DNA molecules, whereby each of said multiple guide RNAs specifically targets its corresponding nucleic acid molecule, e.g., DNA molecule. Each nucleic acid molecule target, e.g., DNA molecule can encode a gene product or encompass a gene locus. Using multiple guide RNAs hence enables the targeting of multiple gene loci or multiple genes. In some embodiments the Cas9 enzyme may cleave the DNA molecule encoding the gene product. In some embodiments expression of the gene product is altered. The Cas9 protein and the guide RNAs do not naturally occur together. The invention comprehends the guide RNAs comprising tandemly arranged guide sequences. The invention further comprehends coding sequences for the Cas9 protein being codon optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In a preferred embodiment the eukaryotic cell is a mammalian cell, a plant cell or a yeast cell and in a more preferred embodiment the mammalian cell is a human cell. Expression of the gene product may be decreased. The Cas9 enzyme may form part of a CRISPR system or complex, which further comprises tandemly arranged guide RNAs (gRNAs) comprising a series of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 25, 25, 30, or more than 30 guide sequences, each capable of specifically hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell. In some embodiments, the functional Cas9 CRISPR system or complex binds to the multiple target sequences. In some embodiments, the functional CRISPR system or complex may edit the multiple target sequences, e.g., the target sequences may comprise a genomic locus, and in some embodiments there may be an alteration of gene expression. In some embodiments, the functional CRISPR system or complex may comprise further functional domains. In some embodiments, the invention provides a method for altering or modifying expression of multiple gene products. The method may comprise introducing into a cell containing said target nucleic acids, e.g., DNA molecules, or containing and expressing target nucleic acid, e.g., DNA molecules; for instance, the target nucleic acids may encode gene products or provide for expression of gene products (e.g., regulatory sequences).

In preferred embodiments the CRISPR enzyme used for multiplex targeting is Cas9, or the CRISPR system or complex comprises Cas9. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme used for multiplex targeting is AsCas9, or the CRISPR system or complex used for multiplex targeting comprises an AsCas9. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme is an LbCas9, or the CRISPR system or complex comprises LbCas9. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme used for multiplex targeting cleaves both strands of DNA to produce a double strand break (DSB). In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme used for multiplex targeting is a nickase. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme used for multiplex targeting is a dual nickase. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme used for multiplex targeting is a Cas9 enzyme such as a DD Cas9 enzyme as defined herein elsewhere.

In embodiments, the Cas9 may be paired, for example as a pair of nickases, for example SaCas9 nickases (eSaCas9 nickases). Further, the Cas9 may be packaged with one or two or more guides on an AAV vector. This may be performed as described in Friedland A E et al, Characterization of Staphylococcus aureus Cas9: a smaller Cas9 for all-in-one adeno-associated virus delivery and paired nickase applications, Genome Biol. 2015 Nov. 24; 16:257. doi: 10.1186/s13059-015-0817-8, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

In some general embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme used for multiplex targeting is associated with one or more functional domains. In some more specific embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme used for multiplex targeting is a deadCas9 as defined herein elsewhere.

In an aspect, the present invention provides a means for delivering the Cas9 enzyme, system or complex for use in multiple targeting as defined herein or the polynucleotides defined herein. Non-limiting examples of such delivery means are e.g. particle(s) delivering component(s) of the complex, vector(s) comprising the polynucleotide(s) discussed herein (e.g., encoding the CRISPR enzyme, providing the nucleotides encoding the CRISPR complex). In some embodiments, the vector may be a plasmid or a viral vector such as AAV, or lentivirus. Transient transfection with plasmids, e.g., into HEK cells may be advantageous, especially given the size limitations of AAV and that while Cas9 fits into AAV, one may reach an upper limit with additional guide RNAs.

Also provided is a model that constitutively expresses the Cas9 enzyme, complex or system as used herein for use in multiplex targeting. The organism may be transgenic and may have been transfected with the present vectors or may be the offspring of an organism so transfected. In a further aspect, the present invention provides compositions comprising the CRISPR enzyme, system and complex as defined herein or the polynucleotides or vectors described herein. Also provides are Cas9 CRISPR systems or complexes comprising multiple guide RNAs, preferably in a tandemly arranged format. Said different guide RNAs may be separated by nucleotide sequences such as direct repeats.

Also provided is a method of treating a subject, e.g., a subject in need thereof, comprising inducing gene editing by transforming the subject with the polynucleotide encoding the Cas9 CRISPR system or complex or any of polynucleotides or vectors described herein and administering them to the subject. A suitable repair template may also be provided, for example delivered by a vector comprising said repair template. Also provided is a method of treating a subject, e.g., a subject in need thereof, comprising inducing transcriptional activation or repression of multiple target gene loci by transforming the subject with the polynucleotides or vectors described herein, wherein said polynucleotide or vector encodes or comprises the Cas9 enzyme, complex or system comprising multiple guide RNAs, preferably tandemly arranged. Where any treatment is occurring ex vivo, for example in a cell culture, then it will be appreciated that the term ‘subject’ may be replaced by the phrase “cell or cell culture.”

Compositions comprising Cas9 enzyme, complex or system comprising multiple guide RNAs, preferably tandemly arranged, or the polynucleotide or vector encoding or comprising said Cas9 enzyme, complex or system comprising multiple guide RNAs, preferably tandemly arranged, for use in the methods of treatment as defined herein elsewhere are also provided. A kit of parts may be provided including such compositions. Use of said composition in the manufacture of a medicament for such methods of treatment are also provided. Use of a Cas9 CRISPR system in screening is also provided by the present invention, e.g., gain of function screens. Cells which are artificially forced to overexpress a gene are be able to down regulate the gene over time (re-establishing equilibrium) e.g. by negative feedback loops. By the time the screen starts the unregulated gene might be reduced again. Using an inducible Cas9 activator allows one to induce transcription right before the screen and therefore minimizes the chance of false negative hits. Accordingly, by use of the instant invention in screening, e.g., gain of function screens, the chance of false negative results may be minimized.

In one aspect, the invention provides an engineered, non-naturally occurring CRISPR system comprising a Cas9 protein and multiple guide RNAs that each specifically target a DNA molecule encoding a gene product in a cell, whereby the multiple guide RNAs each target their specific DNA molecule encoding the gene product and the Cas9 protein cleaves the target DNA molecule encoding the gene product, whereby expression of the gene product is altered; and, wherein the CRISPR protein and the guide RNAs do not naturally occur together. The invention comprehends the multiple guide RNAs comprising multiple guide sequences, preferably separated by a nucleotide sequence such as a direct repeat and optionally fused to a tracr sequence. In an embodiment of the invention the CRISPR protein is a type V or VI CRISPR-Cas protein and in a more preferred embodiment the CRISPR protein is a Cas9 protein. The invention further comprehends a Cas9 protein being codon optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In a preferred embodiment the eukaryotic cell is a mammalian cell and in a more preferred embodiment the mammalian cell is a human cell. In a further embodiment of the invention, the expression of the gene product is decreased.

In another aspect, the invention provides an engineered, non-naturally occurring vector system comprising one or more vectors comprising a first regulatory element operably linked to the multiple Cas9 CRISPR system guide RNAs that each specifically target a DNA molecule encoding a gene product and a second regulatory element operably linked coding for a CRISPR protein. Both regulatory elements may be located on the same vector or on different vectors of the system. The multiple guide RNAs target the multiple DNA molecules encoding the multiple gene products in a cell and the CRISPR protein may cleave the multiple DNA molecules encoding the gene products (it may cleave one or both strands or have substantially no nuclease activity), whereby expression of the multiple gene products is altered; and, wherein the CRISPR protein and the multiple guide RNAs do not naturally occur together. In a preferred embodiment the CRISPR protein is Cas9 protein, optionally codon optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In a preferred embodiment the eukaryotic cell is a mammalian cell, a plant cell or a yeast cell and in a more preferred embodiment the mammalian cell is a human cell. In a further embodiment of the invention, the expression of each of the multiple gene products is altered, preferably decreased.

In one aspect, the invention provides a vector system comprising one or more vectors. In some embodiments, the system comprises: (a) a first regulatory element operably linked to a direct repeat sequence and one or more insertion sites for inserting one or more guide sequences up- or downstream (whichever applicable) of the direct repeat sequence, wherein when expressed, the one or more guide sequence(s) direct(s) sequence-specific binding of the CRISPR complex to the one or more target sequence(s) in a eukaryotic cell, wherein the CRISPR complex comprises a Cas9 enzyme complexed with the one or more guide sequence(s) that is hybridized to the one or more target sequence(s); and (b) a second regulatory element operably linked to an enzyme-coding sequence encoding said Cas9 enzyme, preferably comprising at least one nuclear localization sequence and/or at least one NES; wherein components (a) and (b) are located on the same or different vectors of the system. Where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided. In some embodiments, component (a) further comprises two or more guide sequences operably linked to the first regulatory element, wherein when expressed, each of the two or more guide sequences direct sequence specific binding of a Cas9 CRISPR complex to a different target sequence in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the CRISPR complex comprises one or more nuclear localization sequences and/or one or more NES of sufficient strength to drive accumulation of said Cas9 CRISPR complex in a detectable amount in or out of the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the first regulatory element is a polymerase III promoter. In some embodiments, the second regulatory element is a polymerase II promoter. In some embodiments, each of the guide sequences is at least 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25 nucleotides, or between 16-30, or between 16-25, or between 16-20 nucleotides in length.

Recombinant expression vectors can comprise the polynucleotides encoding the Cas9 enzyme, system or complex for use in multiple targeting as defined herein in a form suitable for expression of the nucleic acid in a host cell, which means that the recombinant expression vectors include one or more regulatory elements, which may be selected on the basis of the host cells to be used for expression, that is operatively-linked to the nucleic acid sequence to be expressed. Within a recombinant expression vector, “operably linked” is intended to mean that the nucleotide sequence of interest is linked to the regulatory element(s) in a manner that allows for expression of the nucleotide sequence (e.g., in an in vitro transcription/translation system or in a host cell when the vector is introduced into the host cell).

In some embodiments, a host cell is transiently or non-transiently transfected with one or more vectors comprising the polynucleotides encoding the Cas9 enzyme, system or complex for use in multiple targeting as defined herein. In some embodiments, a cell is transfected as it naturally occurs in a subject. In some embodiments, a cell that is transfected is taken from a subject. In some embodiments, the cell is derived from cells taken from a subject, such as a cell line. A wide variety of cell lines for tissue culture are known in the art and exemplified herein elsewhere. Cell lines are available from a variety of sources known to those with skill in the art (see, e.g., the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) (Manassas, Va.)). In some embodiments, a cell transfected with one or more vectors comprising the polynucleotides encoding the Cas9 enzyme, system or complex for use in multiple targeting as defined herein is used to establish a new cell line comprising one or more vector-derived sequences. In some embodiments, a cell transiently transfected with the components of a Cas9 CRISPR system or complex for use in multiple targeting as described herein (such as by transient transfection of one or more vectors, or transfection with RNA), and modified through the activity of a Cas9 CRISPR system or complex, is used to establish a new cell line comprising cells containing the modification but lacking any other exogenous sequence. In some embodiments, cells transiently or non-transiently transfected with one or more vectors comprising the polynucleotides encoding the Cas9 enzyme, system or complex for use in multiple targeting as defined herein, or cell lines derived from such cells are used in assessing one or more test compounds.

The term “regulatory element” is as defined herein elsewhere.

Advantageous vectors include lentiviruses and adeno-associated viruses, and types of such vectors can also be selected for targeting particular types of cells.

In one aspect, the invention provides a eukaryotic host cell comprising (a) a first regulatory element operably linked to a direct repeat sequence and one or more insertion sites for inserting one or more guide RNA sequences up- or downstream (whichever applicable) of the direct repeat sequence, wherein when expressed, the guide sequence(s) direct(s) sequence-specific binding of the Cas9 CRISPR complex to the respective target sequence(s) in a eukaryotic cell, wherein the Cas9 CRISPR complex comprises a Cas9 enzyme complexed with the one or more guide sequence(s) that is hybridized to the respective target sequence(s); and/or (b) a second regulatory element operably linked to an enzyme-coding sequence encoding said Cas9 enzyme comprising preferably at least one nuclear localization sequence and/or NES. In some embodiments, the host cell comprises components (a) and (b). Where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided. In some embodiments, component (a), component (b), or components (a) and (b) are stably integrated into a genome of the host eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, component (a) further comprises two or more guide sequences operably linked to the first regulatory element, and optionally separated by a direct repeat, wherein when expressed, each of the two or more guide sequences direct sequence specific binding of a Cas9 CRISPR complex to a different target sequence in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme comprises one or more nuclear localization sequences and/or nuclear export sequences or NES of sufficient strength to drive accumulation of said CRISPR enzyme in a detectable amount in and/or out of the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell.

In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme is a type V or VI CRISPR system enzyme. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme is a Cas9 enzyme. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme is derived from Francisella tularensis 1, Francisella tularensis subsp. novicida, Prevotella albensis, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MC2017 1, Butyrivibrio proteoclasticus, Peregrinibacteria bacterium GW2011_GWA2_33_10, Parcubacteria bacterium GW2011_GWC2_44_17, Smithella sp. SCADC, Acidaminococcus sp. BV3L6, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MA2020, Candidatus Methanoplasma termitum, Eubacterium eligens, Moraxella bovoculi 237, Leptospira inadai, Lachnospiraceae bacterium ND2006, Porphyromonas crevioricanis 3, Prevotella disiens, or Porphyromonas macacae Cas9, and may include further alterations or mutations of the Cas9 as defined herein elsewhere, and can be a chimeric Cas9. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme is codon-optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme directs cleavage of one or two strands at the location of the target sequence. In some embodiments, the first regulatory element is a polymerase III promoter. In some embodiments, the second regulatory element is a polymerase II promoter. In some embodiments, the one or more guide sequence(s) is (are each) at least 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25 nucleotides, or between 16-30, or between 16-25, or between 16-20 nucleotides in length. When multiple guide RNAs are used, they are preferably separated by a direct repeat sequence. In an aspect, the invention provides a non-human eukaryotic organism; preferably a multicellular eukaryotic organism, comprising a eukaryotic host cell according to any of the described embodiments. In other aspects, the invention provides a eukaryotic organism; preferably a multicellular eukaryotic organism, comprising a eukaryotic host cell according to any of the described embodiments. The organism in some embodiments of these aspects may be an animal; for example a mammal. Also, the organism may be an arthropod such as an insect. The organism also may be a plant. Further, the organism may be a fungus.

In one aspect, the invention provides a kit comprising one or more of the components described herein. In some embodiments, the kit comprises a vector system and instructions for using the kit. In some embodiments, the vector system comprises (a) a first regulatory element operably linked to a direct repeat sequence and one or more insertion sites for inserting one or more guide sequences up- or downstream (whichever applicable) of the direct repeat sequence, wherein when expressed, the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a Cas9 CRISPR complex to a target sequence in a eukaryotic cell, wherein the Cas9 CRISPR complex comprises a Cas9 enzyme complexed with the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence; and/or (b) a second regulatory element operably linked to an enzyme-coding sequence encoding said Cas9 enzyme comprising a nuclear localization sequence. Where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided. In some embodiments, the kit comprises components (a) and (b) located on the same or different vectors of the system. In some embodiments, component (a) further comprises two or more guide sequences operably linked to the first regulatory element, wherein when expressed, each of the two or more guide sequences direct sequence specific binding of a CRISPR complex to a different target sequence in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme comprises one or more nuclear localization sequences of sufficient strength to drive accumulation of said CRISPR enzyme in a detectable amount in the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme is a type V or VI CRISPR system enzyme. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme is a Cas9 enzyme. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme is derived from Francisella tularensis 1, Francisella tularensis subsp. novicida, Prevotella albensis, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MC2017 1, Butyrivibrio proteoclasticus, Peregrinibacteria bacterium GW2011_GWA2_33_10, Parcubacteria bacterium GW2011_GWC2_44_17, Smithella sp. SCADC, Acidaminococcus sp. BV3L6, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MA2020, Candidatus Methanoplasma termitum, Eubacterium eligens, Moraxella bovoculi 237, Leptospira inadai, Lachnospiraceae bacterium ND2006, Porphyromonas crevioricanis 3, Prevotella disiens, or Porphyromonas macacae Cas9 (e.g., modified to have or be associated with at least one DD), and may include further alteration or mutation of the Cas9, and can be a chimeric Cas9. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is codon-optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme directs cleavage of one or two strands at the location of the target sequence. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme lacks or substantially DNA strand cleavage activity (e.g., no more than 5% nuclease activity as compared with a wild type enzyme or enzyme not having the mutation or alteration that decreases nuclease activity). In some embodiments, the first regulatory element is a polymerase III promoter. In some embodiments, the second regulatory element is a polymerase II promoter. In some embodiments, the guide sequence is at least 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25 nucleotides, or between 16-30, or between 16-25, or between 16-20 nucleotides in length.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method of modifying multiple target polynucleotides in a host cell such as a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a Cas9CRISPR complex to bind to multiple target polynucleotides, e.g., to effect cleavage of said multiple target polynucleotides, thereby modifying multiple target polynucleotides, wherein the Cas9CRISPR complex comprises a Cas9 enzyme complexed with multiple guide sequences each of the being hybridized to a specific target sequence within said target polynucleotide, wherein said multiple guide sequences are linked to a direct repeat sequence. Where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided (e.g. to provide a single guide RNA, sgRNA). In some embodiments, said cleavage comprises cleaving one or two strands at the location of each of the target sequence by said Cas9 enzyme. In some embodiments, said cleavage results in decreased transcription of the multiple target genes. In some embodiments, the method further comprises repairing one or more of said cleaved target polynucleotide by homologous recombination with an exogenous template polynucleotide, wherein said repair results in a mutation comprising an insertion, deletion, or substitution of one or more nucleotides of one or more of said target polynucleotides. In some embodiments, said mutation results in one or more amino acid changes in a protein expressed from a gene comprising one or more of the target sequence(s). In some embodiments, the method further comprises delivering one or more vectors to said eukaryotic cell, wherein the one or more vectors drive expression of one or more of: the Cas9 enzyme and the multiple guide RNA sequence linked to a direct repeat sequence. Where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided. In some embodiments, said vectors are delivered to the eukaryotic cell in a subject. In some embodiments, said modifying takes place in said eukaryotic cell in a cell culture. In some embodiments, the method further comprises isolating said eukaryotic cell from a subject prior to said modifying. In some embodiments, the method further comprises returning said eukaryotic cell and/or cells derived therefrom to said subject.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method of modifying expression of multiple polynucleotides in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a Cas9 CRISPR complex to bind to multiple polynucleotides such that said binding results in increased or decreased expression of said polynucleotides; wherein the Cas9 CRISPR complex comprises a Cas9 enzyme complexed with multiple guide sequences each specifically hybridized to its own target sequence within said polynucleotide, wherein said guide sequences are linked to a direct repeat sequence. Where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided. In some embodiments, the method further comprises delivering one or more vectors to said eukaryotic cells, wherein the one or more vectors drive expression of one or more of: the Cas9 enzyme and the multiple guide sequences linked to the direct repeat sequences. Where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided.

In one aspect, the invention provides a recombinant polynucleotide comprising multiple guide RNA sequences up- or downstream (whichever applicable) of a direct repeat sequence, wherein each of the guide sequences when expressed directs sequence-specific binding of a Cas9CRISPR complex to its corresponding target sequence present in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the target sequence is a viral sequence present in a eukaryotic cell. Where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided. In some embodiments, the target sequence is a proto-oncogene or an oncogene.

Aspects of the invention encompass a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition that may comprise a guide RNA (gRNA) comprising a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell and a Cas9 enzyme as defined herein that may comprise at least one or more nuclear localization sequences.

An aspect of the invention encompasses methods of modifying a genomic locus of interest to change gene expression in a cell by introducing into the cell any of the compositions described herein.

An aspect of the invention is that the above elements are comprised in a single composition or comprised in individual compositions. These compositions may advantageously be applied to a host to elicit a functional effect on the genomic level.

As used herein, the term “guide RNA” or “gRNA” has the leaning as used herein elsewhere and comprises any polynucleotide sequence having sufficient complementarity with a target nucleic acid sequence to hybridize with the target nucleic acid sequence and direct sequence-specific binding of a nucleic acid-targeting complex to the target nucleic acid sequence. Each gRNA may be designed to include multiple binding recognition sites (e.g., aptamers) specific to the same or different adapter protein. Each gRNA may be designed to bind to the promoter region −1000-+1 nucleic acids upstream of the transcription start site (i.e. TSS), preferably −200 nucleic acids. This positioning improves functional domains which affect gene activation (e.g., transcription activators) or gene inhibition (e.g., transcription repressors). The modified gRNA may be one or more modified gRNAs targeted to one or more target loci (e.g., at least 1 gRNA, at least 2 gRNA, at least 5 gRNA, at least 10 gRNA, at least 20 gRNA, at least 30 g RNA, at least 50 gRNA) comprised in a composition. Said multiple gRNA sequences can be tandemly arranged and are preferably separated by a direct repeat.

Thus, gRNA, the CRISPR enzyme as defined herein may each individually be comprised in a composition and administered to a host individually or collectively. Alternatively, these components may be provided in a single composition for administration to a host. Administration to a host may be performed via viral vectors known to the skilled person or described herein for delivery to a host (e.g., lentiviral vector, adenoviral vector, AAV vector). As explained herein, use of different selection markers (e.g., for lentiviral sgRNA selection) and concentration of gRNA (e.g., dependent on whether multiple gRNAs are used) may be advantageous for eliciting an improved effect. On the basis of this concept, several variations are appropriate to elicit a genomic locus event, including DNA cleavage, gene activation, or gene deactivation. Using the provided compositions, the person skilled in the art can advantageously and specifically target single or multiple loci with the same or different functional domains to elicit one or more genomic locus events. The compositions may be applied in a wide variety of methods for screening in libraries in cells and functional modeling in vivo (e.g., gene activation of lincRNA and identification of function; gain-of-function modeling; loss-of-function modeling; the use the compositions of the invention to establish cell lines and transgenic animals for optimization and screening purposes).

The current invention comprehends the use of the compositions of the current invention to establish and utilize conditional or inducible CRISPR transgenic cell/animals; see, e.g., Platt et al., Cell (2014), 159(2): 440-455, or PCT patent publications cited herein, such as WO 2014/093622 (PCT/US2013/074667). For example, cells or animals such as non-human animals, e.g., vertebrates or mammals, such as rodents, e.g., mice, rats, or other laboratory or field animals, e.g., cats, dogs, sheep, etc., may be ‘knock-in’ whereby the animal conditionally or inducibly expresses Cas9 akin to Platt et al. The target cell or animal thus comprises the CRISPR enzyme (e.g., Cas9) conditionally or inducibly (e.g., in the form of Cre dependent constructs), on expression of a vector introduced into the target cell, the vector expresses that which induces or gives rise to the condition of the CRISPR enzyme (e.g., Cas9) expression in the target cell. By applying the teaching and compositions as defined herein with the known method of creating a CRISPR complex, inducible genomic events are also an aspect of the current invention. Examples of such inducible events have been described herein elsewhere.

In some embodiments, phenotypic alteration is preferably the result of genome modification when a genetic disease is targeted, especially in methods of therapy and preferably where a repair template is provided to correct or alter the phenotype.

In some embodiments diseases that may be targeted include those concerned with disease-causing splice defects.

In some embodiments, cellular targets include Hemopoietic Stem/Progenitor Cells (CD34+); Human T cells; and Eye (retinal cells)—for example photoreceptor precursor cells.

In some embodiments Gene targets include: Human Beta Globin—HBB (for treating Sickle Cell Anemia, including by stimulating gene-conversion (using closely related HBD gene as an endogenous template)); CD3 (T-Cells); and CEP920—retina (eye).

In some embodiments disease targets also include: cancer; Sickle Cell Anemia (based on a point mutation); HBV, HIV; Beta-Thalassemia; and ophthalmic or ocular disease—for example Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA)-causing Splice Defect.

In some embodiments delivery methods include: Cationic Lipid Mediated “direct” delivery of Enzyme-Guide complex (RiboNucleoProtein) and electroporation of plasmid DNA.

Methods, products and uses described herein may be used for non-therapeutic purposes. Furthermore, any of the methods described herein may be applied in vitro and ex vivo.

In an aspect, provided is a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition comprising:

-   -   I. two or more CRISPR-Cas system polynucleotide sequences         comprising     -   (a) a first guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a first         target sequence in a polynucleotide locus,     -   (b) a second guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a second         target sequence in a polynucleotide locus,     -   (c) a direct repeat sequence,     -   and     -   II. a Cas9 enzyme or a second polynucleotide sequence encoding         it,     -   wherein when transcribed, the first and the second guide         sequences direct sequence-specific binding of a first and a         second Cas9 CRISPR complex to the first and second target         sequences respectively,     -   wherein the first CRISPR complex comprises the Cas9 enzyme         complexed with the first guide sequence that is hybridizable to         the first target sequence,     -   wherein the second CRISPR complex comprises the Cas9 enzyme         complexed with the second guide sequence that is hybridizable to         the second target sequence, and     -   wherein the first guide sequence directs cleavage of one strand         of the DNA duplex near the first target sequence and the second         guide sequence directs cleavage of the other strand near the         second target sequence inducing a double strand break, thereby         modifying the organism or the non-human or non-animal organism.         Similarly, compositions comprising more than two guide RNAs can         be envisaged e.g. each specific for one target, and arranged         tandemly in the composition or CRISPR system or complex as         described herein.

In another embodiment, the Cas9 is delivered into the cell as a protein. In another and particularly preferred embodiment, the Cas9 is delivered into the cell as a protein or as a nucleotide sequence encoding it. Delivery to the cell as a protein may include delivery of a Ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex, where the protein is complexed with the multiple guides.

In an aspect, host cells and cell lines modified by or comprising the compositions, systems or modified enzymes of present invention are provided, including stem cells, and progeny thereof.

In an aspect, methods of cellular therapy are provided, where, for example, a single cell or a population of cells is sampled or cultured, wherein that cell or cells is or has been modified ex vivo as described herein, and is then re-introduced (sampled cells) or introduced (cultured cells) into the organism. Stem cells, whether embryonic or induce pluripotent or totipotent stem cells, are also particularly preferred in this regard. But, of course, in vivo embodiments are also envisaged.

Inventive methods can further comprise delivery of templates, such as repair templates, which may be dsODN or ssODN, see below. Delivery of templates may be via the cotemporaneous or separate from delivery of any or all the CRISPR enzyme or guide RNAs and via the same delivery mechanism or different. In some embodiments, it is preferred that the template is delivered together with the guide RNAs and, preferably, also the CRISPR enzyme. An example may be an AAV vector where the CRISPR enzyme is AsCas9 or LbCas9.

Inventive methods can further comprise: (a) delivering to the cell a double-stranded oligodeoxynucleotide (dsODN) comprising overhangs complimentary to the overhangs created by said double strand break, wherein said dsODN is integrated into the locus of interest; or —(b) delivering to the cell a single-stranded oligodeoxynucleotide (ssODN), wherein said ssODN acts as a template for homology directed repair of said double strand break. Inventive methods can be for the prevention or treatment of disease in an individual, optionally wherein said disease is caused by a defect in said locus of interest. Inventive methods can be conducted in vivo in the individual or ex vivo on a cell taken from the individual, optionally wherein said cell is returned to the individual.

The invention also comprehends products obtained from using CRISPR enzyme or Cas enzyme or Cas9 enzyme or CRISPR-CRISPR enzyme or CRISPR-Cas system or CRISPR-Cas9 system for use in tandem or multiple targeting as defined herein.

Escorted Guides for the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas System According to the Invention

In one aspect the invention provides escorted Cas9 CRISPR-Cas systems or complexes, especially such a system involving an escorted Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system guide. By “escorted” is meant that the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system or complex or guide is delivered to a selected time or place within a cell, so that activity of the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system or complex or guide is spatially or temporally controlled. For example, the activity and destination of the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system or complex or guide may be controlled by an escort RNA aptamer sequence that has binding affinity for an aptamer ligand, such as a cell surface protein or other localized cellular component. Alternatively, the escort aptamer may for example be responsive to an aptamer effector on or in the cell, such as a transient effector, such as an external energy source that is applied to the cell at a particular time.

The escorted Cas9 CRISPR-Cas systems or complexes have a gRNA with a functional structure designed to improve gRNA structure, architecture, stability, genetic expression, or any combination thereof. Such a structure can include an aptamer.

Aptamers are biomolecules that can be designed or selected to bind tightly to other ligands, for example using a technique called systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX; Tuerk C, Gold L: “Systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment: RNA ligands to bacteriophage T4 DNA polymerase.” Science 1990, 249:505-510). Nucleic acid aptamers can for example be selected from pools of random-sequence oligonucleotides, with high binding affinities and specificities for a wide range of biomedically relevant targets, suggesting a wide range of therapeutic utilities for aptamers (Keefe, Anthony D., Supriya Pai, and Andrew Ellington. “Aptamers as therapeutics.” Nature Reviews Drug Discovery 9.7 (2010): 537-550). These characteristics also suggest a wide range of uses for aptamers as drug delivery vehicles (Levy-Nissenbaum, Etgar, et al. “Nanotechnology and aptamers: applications in drug delivery.” Trends in biotechnology 26.8 (2008): 442-449; and, Hicke B J, Stephens A W. “Escort aptamers: a delivery service for diagnosis and therapy.” J Clin Invest 2000, 106:923-928.). Aptamers may also be constructed that function as molecular switches, responding to a que by changing properties, such as RNA aptamers that bind fluorophores to mimic the activity of green fluorescent protein (Paige, Jeremy S., Karen Y. Wu, and Samie R. Jaffrey. “RNA mimics of green fluorescent protein.” Science 333.6042 (2011): 642-646). It has also been suggested that aptamers may be used as components of targeted siRNA therapeutic delivery systems, for example targeting cell surface proteins (Zhou, Jiehua, and John J. Rossi. “Aptamer-targeted cell-specific RNA interference.” Silence 1.1 (2010): 4).

Accordingly, provided herein is a gRNA modified, e.g., by one or more aptamer(s) designed to improve gRNA delivery, including delivery across the cellular membrane, to intracellular compartments, or into the nucleus. Such a structure can include, either in addition to the one or more aptamer(s) or without such one or more aptamer(s), moiety(ies) so as to render the guide deliverable, inducible or responsive to a selected effector. The invention accordingly comprehends an gRNA that responds to normal or pathological physiological conditions, including without limitation pH, hypoxia, O₂ concentration, temperature, protein concentration, enzymatic concentration, lipid structure, light exposure, mechanical disruption (e.g. ultrasound waves), magnetic fields, electric fields, or electromagnetic radiation.

An aspect of the invention provides non-naturally occurring or engineered composition comprising an escorted guide RNA (egRNA) comprising:

-   -   an RNA guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target         sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell; and,     -   an escort RNA aptamer sequence, wherein the escort aptamer has         binding affinity for an aptamer ligand on or in the cell, or the         escort aptamer is responsive to a localized aptamer effector on         or in the cell, wherein the presence of the aptamer ligand or         effector on or in the cell is spatially or temporally         restricted.

The escort aptamer may for example change conformation in response to an interaction with the aptamer ligand or effector in the cell.

The escort aptamer may have specific binding affinity for the aptamer ligand.

The aptamer ligand may be localized in a location or compartment of the cell, for example on or in a membrane of the cell. Binding of the escort aptamer to the aptamer ligand may accordingly direct the egRNA to a location of interest in the cell, such as the interior of the cell by way of binding to an aptamer ligand that is a cell surface ligand. In this way, a variety of spatially restricted locations within the cell may be targeted, such as the cell nucleus or mitochondria.

Once intended alterations have been introduced, such as by editing intended copies of a gene in the genome of a cell, continued CRISPR/Cas9 expression in that cell is no longer necessary. Indeed, sustained expression would be undesirable in certain casein case of off-target effects at unintended genomic sites, etc. Thus time-limited expression would be useful. Inducible expression offers one approach, but in addition Applicants have engineered a Self-Inactivating Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system that relies on the use of a non-coding guide target sequence within the CRISPR vector itself. Thus, after expression begins, the CRISPR system will lead to its own destruction, but before destruction is complete it will have time to edit the genomic copies of the target gene (which, with a normal point mutation in a diploid cell, requires at most two edits). Simply, the self inactivating Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system includes additional RNA (i.e., guide RNA) that targets the coding sequence for the CRISPR enzyme itself or that targets one or more non-coding guide target sequences complementary to unique sequences present in one or more of the following: (a) within the promoter driving expression of the non-coding RNA elements, (b) within the promoter driving expression of the Cas9 gene, (c) within 100 bp of the ATG translational start codon in the Cas9 coding sequence, (d) within the inverted terminal repeat (iTR) of a viral delivery vector, e.g., in an AAV genome.

The egRNA may include an RNA aptamer linking sequence, operably linking the escort RNA sequence to the RNA guide sequence.

In embodiments, the egRNA may include one or more photolabile bonds or non-naturally occurring residues.

In one aspect, the escort RNA aptamer sequence may be complementary to a target miRNA, which may or may not be present within a cell, so that only when the target miRNA is present is there binding of the escort RNA aptamer sequence to the target miRNA which results in cleavage of the egRNA by an RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) within the cell.

In embodiments, the escort RNA aptamer sequence may for example be from 10 to 200 nucleotides in length, and the egRNA may include more than one escort RNA aptamer sequence.

It is to be understood that any of the RNA guide sequences as described herein elsewhere can be used in the egRNA described herein. In certain embodiments of the invention, the guide RNA or mature crRNA comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of a direct repeat sequence and a guide sequence or spacer sequence. In certain embodiments, the guide RNA or mature crRNA comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of a direct repeat sequence linked to a guide sequence or spacer sequence. In certain embodiments the guide RNA or mature crRNA comprises 19 nts of partial direct repeat followed by 23-25 nt of guide sequence or spacer sequence. In certain embodiments, the effector protein is a FnCas9 effector protein and requires at least 16 nt of guide sequence to achieve detectable DNA cleavage and a minimum of 17 nt of guide sequence to achieve efficient DNA cleavage in vitro. In certain embodiments, the direct repeat sequence is located upstream (i.e., 5′) from the guide sequence or spacer sequence. In a preferred embodiment the seed sequence (i.e. the sequence essential critical for recognition and/or hybridization to the sequence at the target locus) of the FnCas9 guide RNA is approximately within the first 5 nt on the 5′ end of the guide sequence or spacer sequence.

The egRNA may be included in a non-naturally occurring or engineered Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex composition, together with a Cas9 which may include at least one mutation, for example a mutation so that the Cas9 has no more than 5% of the nuclease activity of a Cas9 not having the at least one mutation, for example having a diminished nuclease activity of at least 97%, or 100% as compared with the Cas9 not having the at least one mutation. The Cas9 may also include one or more nuclear localization sequences. Mutated Cas9 enzymes having modulated activity such as diminished nuclease activity are described herein elsewhere.

The engineered Cas9 CRISPR-Cas composition may be provided in a cell, such as a eukaryotic cell, a mammalian cell, or a human cell.

In embodiments, the compositions described herein comprise a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex having at least three functional domains, at least one of which is associated with Cas9 and at least two of which are associated with egRNA.

The compositions described herein may be used to introduce a genomic locus event in a host cell, such as an eukaryotic cell, in particular a mammalian cell, or a non-human eukaryote, in particular a non-human mammal such as a mouse, in vivo. The genomic locus event may comprise affecting gene activation, gene inhibition, or cleavage in a locus. The compositions described herein may also be used to modify a genomic locus of interest to change gene expression in a cell. Methods of introducing a genomic locus event in a host cell using the Cas9 enzyme provided herein are described herein in detail elsewhere. Delivery of the composition may for example be by way of delivery of a nucleic acid molecule(s) coding for the composition, which nucleic acid molecule(s) is operatively linked to regulatory sequence(s), and expression of the nucleic acid molecule(s) in vivo, for example by way of a lentivirus, an adenovirus, or an AAV.

The present invention provides compositions and methods by which gRNA-mediated gene editing activity can be adapted. The invention provides gRNA secondary structures that improve cutting efficiency by increasing gRNA and/or increasing the amount of RNA delivered into the cell. The gRNA may include light labile or inducible nucleotides.

To increase the effectiveness of gRNA, for example gRNA delivered with viral or non-viral technologies, Applicants added secondary structures into the gRNA that enhance its stability and improve gene editing. Separately, to overcome the lack of effective delivery, Applicants modified gRNAs with cell penetrating RNA aptamers; the aptamers bind to cell surface receptors and promote the entry of gRNAs into cells. Notably, the cell-penetrating aptamers can be designed to target specific cell receptors, in order to mediate cell-specific delivery. Applicants also have created guides that are inducible.

Light responsiveness of an inducible system may be achieved via the activation and binding of cryptochrome-2 and CIB1. Blue light stimulation induces an activating conformational change in cryptochrome-2, resulting in recruitment of its binding partner CIB1. This binding is fast and reversible, achieving saturation in <15 sec following pulsed stimulation and returning to baseline <15 min after the end of stimulation. These rapid binding kinetics result in a system temporally bound only by the speed of transcription/translation and transcript/protein degradation, rather than uptake and clearance of inducing agents. Crytochrome-2 activation is also highly sensitive, allowing for the use of low light intensity stimulation and mitigating the risks of phototoxicity. Further, in a context such as the intact mammalian brain, variable light intensity may be used to control the size of a stimulated region, allowing for greater precision than vector delivery alone may offer.

The invention contemplates energy sources such as electromagnetic radiation, sound energy or thermal energy to induce the guide. Advantageously, the electromagnetic radiation is a component of visible light. In a preferred embodiment, the light is a blue light with a wavelength of about 450 to about 495 nm. In an especially preferred embodiment, the wavelength is about 488 nm. In another preferred embodiment, the light stimulation is via pulses. The light power may range from about 0-9 mW/cm². In a preferred embodiment, a stimulation paradigm of as low as 0.25 sec every 15 sec should result in maximal activation.

Cells involved in the practice of the present invention may be a prokaryotic cell or a eukaryotic cell, advantageously an animal cell a plant cell or a yeast cell, more advantageously a mammalian cell.

The chemical or energy sensitive guide may undergo a conformational change upon induction by the binding of a chemical source or by the energy allowing it act as a guide and have the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system or complex function. The invention can involve applying the chemical source or energy so as to have the guide function and the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system or complex function; and optionally further determining that the expression of the genomic locus is altered.

There are several different designs of this chemical inducible system: 1. ABI-PYL based system inducible by Abscisic Acid (ABA) (see, e.g., http://stke.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/abstract/sigtrans; 4/164/r52), 2. FKBP-FRB based system inducible by rapamycin (or related chemicals based on rapamycin) (see, e.g., http://www.nature.com/nmeth/journal/v2/n6/full/nmeth763.html), 3. GID1-GAI based system inducible by Gibberellin (GA) (see, e.g., http://www.nature.com/nchembio/journal/v8/n5/full/nchembio.922.html).

Another system contemplated by the present invention is a chemical inducible system based on change in sub-cellular localization. Applicants also developed a system in which the polypeptide include a DNA binding domain comprising at least five or more Transcription activator-like effector (TALE) monomers and at least one or more half-monomers specifically ordered to target the genomic locus of interest linked to at least one or more effector domains are further linker to a chemical or energy sensitive protein. This protein will lead to a change in the sub-cellular localization of the entire polypeptide (i.e. transportation of the entire polypeptide from cytoplasm into the nucleus of the cells) upon the binding of a chemical or energy transfer to the chemical or energy sensitive protein. This transportation of the entire polypeptide from one sub-cellular compartments or organelles, in which its activity is sequestered due to lack of substrate for the effector domain, into another one in which the substrate is present would allow the entire polypeptide to come in contact with its desired substrate (i.e. genomic DNA in the mammalian nucleus) and result in activation or repression of target gene expression.

This type of system could also be used to induce the cleavage of a genomic locus of interest in a cell when the effector domain is a nuclease.

A chemical inducible system can be an estrogen receptor (ER) based system inducible by 4-hydroxytamoxifen (4OHT) (see, e.g., http://www.pnas.org/content/104/3/1027.abstract). A mutated ligand-binding domain of the estrogen receptor called ERT2 translocates into the nucleus of cells upon binding of 4-hydroxytamoxifen. In further embodiments of the invention any naturally occurring or engineered derivative of any nuclear receptor, thyroid hormone receptor, retinoic acid receptor, estrogen receptor, estrogen-related receptor, glucocorticoid receptor, progesterone receptor, androgen receptor may be used in inducible systems analogous to the ER based inducible system.

Another inducible system is based on the design using Transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channel based system inducible by energy, heat or radio-wave (see, e.g., http://www.sciencemag.org/content/336/6081/604). These TRP family proteins respond to different stimuli, including light and heat. When this protein is activated by light or heat, the ion channel will open and allow the entering of ions such as calcium into the plasma membrane. This influx of ions will bind to intracellular ion interacting partners linked to a polypeptide including the guide and the other components of the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex or system, and the binding will induce the change of sub-cellular localization of the polypeptide, leading to the entire polypeptide entering the nucleus of cells. Once inside the nucleus, the guide protein and the other components of the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex will be active and modulating target gene expression in cells.

This type of system could also be used to induce the cleavage of a genomic locus of interest in a cell; and, in this regard, it is noted that the Cas9 enzyme is a nuclease. The light could be generated with a laser or other forms of energy sources. The heat could be generated by raise of temperature results from an energy source, or from nano-particles that release heat after absorbing energy from an energy source delivered in the form of radio-wave.

While light activation may be an advantageous embodiment, sometimes it may be disadvantageous especially for in vivo applications in which the light may not penetrate the skin or other organs. In this instance, other methods of energy activation are contemplated, in particular, electric field energy and/or ultrasound which have a similar effect.

Electric field energy is preferably administered substantially as described in the art, using one or more electric pulses of from about 1 Volt/cm to about 10 kVolts/cm under in vivo conditions. Instead of or in addition to the pulses, the electric field may be delivered in a continuous manner. The electric pulse may be applied for between 1 μs and 500 milliseconds, preferably between 1 μs and 100 milliseconds. The electric field may be applied continuously or in a pulsed manner for 5 about minutes.

As used herein, ‘electric field energy’ is the electrical energy to which a cell is exposed. Preferably the electric field has a strength of from about 1 Volt/cm to about 10 kVolts/cm or more under in vivo conditions (see WO97/49450).

As used herein, the term “electric field” includes one or more pulses at variable capacitance and voltage and including exponential and/or square wave and/or modulated wave and/or modulated square wave forms. References to electric fields and electricity should be taken to include reference the presence of an electric potential difference in the environment of a cell. Such an environment may be set up by way of static electricity, alternating current (AC), direct current (DC), etc, as known in the art. The electric field may be uniform, non-uniform or otherwise, and may vary in strength and/or direction in a time dependent manner.

Single or multiple applications of electric field, as well as single or multiple applications of ultrasound are also possible, in any order and in any combination. The ultrasound and/or the electric field may be delivered as single or multiple continuous applications, or as pulses (pulsatile delivery).

Electroporation has been used in both in vitro and in vivo procedures to introduce foreign material into living cells. With in vitro applications, a sample of live cells is first mixed with the agent of interest and placed between electrodes such as parallel plates. Then, the electrodes apply an electrical field to the cell/implant mixture. Examples of systems that perform in vitro electroporation include the Electro Cell Manipulator ECM600 product, and the Electro Square Porator T820, both made by the BTX Division of Genetronics, Inc (see U.S. Pat. No. 5,869,326).

The known electroporation techniques (both in vitro and in vivo) function by applying a brief high voltage pulse to electrodes positioned around the treatment region. The electric field generated between the electrodes causes the cell membranes to temporarily become porous, whereupon molecules of the agent of interest enter the cells. In known electroporation applications, this electric field comprises a single square wave pulse on the order of 1000 V/cm, of about 100 .mu.s duration. Such a pulse may be generated, for example, in known applications of the Electro Square Porator T820.

Preferably, the electric field has a strength of from about 1 V/cm to about 10 kV/cm under in vitro conditions. Thus, the electric field may have a strength of 1 V/cm, 2 V/cm, 3 V/cm, 4 V/cm, 5 V/cm, 6 V/cm, 7 V/cm, 8 V/cm, 9 V/cm, 10 V/cm, 20 V/cm, 50 V/cm, 100 V/cm, 200 V/cm, 300 V/cm, 400 V/cm, 500 V/cm, 600 V/cm, 700 V/cm, 800 V/cm, 900 V/cm, 1 kV/cm, 2 kV/cm, 5 kV/cm, 10 kV/cm, 20 kV/cm, 50 kV/cm or more. More preferably from about 0.5 kV/cm to about 4.0 kV/cm under in vitro conditions. Preferably the electric field has a strength of from about 1 V/cm to about 10 kV/cm under in vivo conditions. However, the electric field strengths may be lowered where the number of pulses delivered to the target site are increased. Thus, pulsatile delivery of electric fields at lower field strengths is envisaged.

Preferably the application of the electric field is in the form of multiple pulses such as double pulses of the same strength and capacitance or sequential pulses of varying strength and/or capacitance. As used herein, the term “pulse” includes one or more electric pulses at variable capacitance and voltage and including exponential and/or square wave and/or modulated wave/square wave forms.

Preferably the electric pulse is delivered as a waveform selected from an exponential wave form, a square wave form, a modulated wave form and a modulated square wave form.

A preferred embodiment employs direct current at low voltage. Thus, Applicants disclose the use of an electric field which is applied to the cell, tissue or tissue mass at a field strength of between 1V/cm and 20V/cm, for a period of 100 milliseconds or more, preferably 15 minutes or more.

Ultrasound is advantageously administered at a power level of from about 0.05 W/cm² to about 100 W/cm². Diagnostic or therapeutic ultrasound may be used, or combinations thereof.

As used herein, the term “ultrasound” refers to a form of energy which consists of mechanical vibrations the frequencies of which are so high they are above the range of human hearing. Lower frequency limit of the ultrasonic spectrum may generally be taken as about 20 kHz. Most diagnostic applications of ultrasound employ frequencies in the range 1 and 15 MHz′ (From Ultrasonics in Clinical Diagnosis, P. N. T. Wells, ed., 2nd. Edition, Publ. Churchill Livingstone [Edinburgh, London & NY, 1977]).

Ultrasound has been used in both diagnostic and therapeutic applications. When used as a diagnostic tool (“diagnostic ultrasound”), ultrasound is typically used in an energy density range of up to about 100 mW/cm² (FDA recommendation), although energy densities of up to 750 mW/cm² have been used. In physiotherapy, ultrasound is typically used as an energy source in a range up to about 3 to 4 W/cm² (WHO recommendation). In other therapeutic applications, higher intensities of ultrasound may be employed, for example, HIFU at 100 W/cm up to 1 kW/cm² (or even higher) for short periods of time. The term “ultrasound” as used in this specification is intended to encompass diagnostic, therapeutic and focused ultrasound.

Focused ultrasound (FUS) allows thermal energy to be delivered without an invasive probe (see Morocz et al 1998 Journal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Vol. 8, No. 1, pp. 136-142. Another form of focused ultrasound is high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) which is reviewed by Moussatov et al in Ultrasonics (1998) Vol. 36, No. 8, pp. 893-900 and TranHuuHue et al in Acustica (1997) Vol. 83, No. 6, pp. 1103-1106.

Preferably, a combination of diagnostic ultrasound and a therapeutic ultrasound is employed. This combination is not intended to be limiting, however, and the skilled reader will appreciate that any variety of combinations of ultrasound may be used. Additionally, the energy density, frequency of ultrasound, and period of exposure may be varied.

Preferably the exposure to an ultrasound energy source is at a power density of from about 0.05 to about 100 Wcm⁻². Even more preferably, the exposure to an ultrasound energy source is at a power density of from about 1 to about 15 Wcm⁻².

Preferably the exposure to an ultrasound energy source is at a frequency of from about 0.015 to about 10.0 MHz. More preferably the exposure to an ultrasound energy source is at a frequency of from about 0.02 to about 5.0 MHz or about 6.0 MHz. Most preferably, the ultrasound is applied at a frequency of 3 MHz.

Preferably the exposure is for periods of from about 10 milliseconds to about 60 minutes. Preferably the exposure is for periods of from about 1 second to about 5 minutes. More preferably, the ultrasound is applied for about 2 minutes. Depending on the particular target cell to be disrupted, however, the exposure may be for a longer duration, for example, for 15 minutes.

Advantageously, the target tissue is exposed to an ultrasound energy source at an acoustic power density of from about 0.05 Wcm⁻² to about 10 Wcm⁻² with a frequency ranging from about 0.015 to about 10 MHz (see WO 98/52609). However, alternatives are also possible, for example, exposure to an ultrasound energy source at an acoustic power density of above 100 Wcm⁻², but for reduced periods of time, for example, 1000 Wcm⁻² for periods in the millisecond range or less.

Preferably the application of the ultrasound is in the form of multiple pulses; thus, both continuous wave and pulsed wave (pulsatile delivery of ultrasound) may be employed in any combination. For example, continuous wave ultrasound may be applied, followed by pulsed wave ultrasound, or vice versa. This may be repeated any number of times, in any order and combination. The pulsed wave ultrasound may be applied against a background of continuous wave ultrasound, and any number of pulses may be used in any number of groups.

Preferably, the ultrasound may comprise pulsed wave ultrasound. In a highly preferred embodiment, the ultrasound is applied at a power density of 0.7 Wcm⁻² or 1.25 Wcm⁻² as a continuous wave. Higher power densities may be employed if pulsed wave ultrasound is used.

Use of ultrasound is advantageous as, like light, it may be focused accurately on a target. Moreover, ultrasound is advantageous as it may be focused more deeply into tissues unlike light. It is therefore better suited to whole-tissue penetration (such as but not limited to a lobe of the liver) or whole organ (such as but not limited to the entire liver or an entire muscle, such as the heart) therapy. Another important advantage is that ultrasound is a non-invasive stimulus which is used in a wide variety of diagnostic and therapeutic applications. By way of example, ultrasound is well known in medical imaging techniques and, additionally, in orthopedic therapy. Furthermore, instruments suitable for the application of ultrasound to a subject vertebrate are widely available and their use is well known in the art.

The rapid transcriptional response and endogenous targeting of the instant invention make for an ideal system for the study of transcriptional dynamics. For example, the instant invention may be used to study the dynamics of variant production upon induced expression of a target gene. On the other end of the transcription cycle, mRNA degradation studies are often performed in response to a strong extracellular stimulus, causing expression level changes in a plethora of genes. The instant invention may be utilized to reversibly induce transcription of an endogenous target, after which point stimulation may be stopped and the degradation kinetics of the unique target may be tracked.

The temporal precision of the instant invention may provide the power to time genetic regulation in concert with experimental interventions. For example, targets with suspected involvement in long-term potentiation (LTP) may be modulated in organotypic or dissociated neuronal cultures, but only during stimulus to induce LTP, so as to avoid interfering with the normal development of the cells. Similarly, in cellular models exhibiting disease phenotypes, targets suspected to be involved in the effectiveness of a particular therapy may be modulated only during treatment. Conversely, genetic targets may be modulated only during a pathological stimulus. Any number of experiments in which timing of genetic cues to external experimental stimuli is of relevance may potentially benefit from the utility of the instant invention.

The in vivo context offers equally rich opportunities for the instant invention to control gene expression. Photoinducibility provides the potential for spatial precision. Taking advantage of the development of optrode technology, a stimulating fiber optic lead may be placed in a precise brain region. Stimulation region size may then be tuned by light intensity. This may be done in conjunction with the delivery of the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system or complex of the invention, or, in the case of transgenic Cas9 animals, guide RNA of the invention may be delivered and the optrode technology can allow for the modulation of gene expression in precise brain regions. A transparent Cas9 expressing organism, can have guide RNA of the invention administered to it and then there can be extremely precise laser induced local gene expression changes.

A culture medium for culturing host cells includes a medium commonly used for tissue culture, such as M199-earle base, Eagle MEM (E-MEM), Dulbecco MEM (DMEM), SC-UCM102, UP-SFM (GIBCO BRL), EX-CELL302 (Nichirei), EX-CELL293-S(Nichirei), TFBM-01 (Nichirei), ASF104, among others. Suitable culture media for specific cell types may be found at the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) or the European Collection of Cell Cultures (ECACC). Culture media may be supplemented with amino acids such as L-glutamine, salts, anti-fungal or anti-bacterial agents such as Fungizone®, penicillin-streptomycin, animal serum, and the like. The cell culture medium may optionally be serum-free.

The invention may also offer valuable temporal precision in vivo. The invention may be used to alter gene expression during a particular stage of development. The invention may be used to time a genetic cue to a particular experimental window. For example, genes implicated in learning may be overexpressed or repressed only during the learning stimulus in a precise region of the intact rodent or primate brain. Further, the invention may be used to induce gene expression changes only during particular stages of disease development. For example, an oncogene may be overexpressed only once a tumor reaches a particular size or metastatic stage. Conversely, proteins suspected in the development of Alzheimer's may be knocked down only at defined time points in the animal's life and within a particular brain region. Although these examples do not exhaustively list the potential applications of the invention, they highlight some of the areas in which the invention may be a powerful technology.

Protected Guides: Enzymes According to the Invention can be Used in Combination with Protected Guide RNAs

In one aspect, an object of the current invention is to further enhance the specificity of Cas9 given individual guide RNAs through thermodynamic tuning of the binding specificity of the guide RNA to target DNA. This is a general approach of introducing mismatches, elongation or truncation of the guide sequence to increase/decrease the number of complimentary bases vs. mismatched bases shared between a genomic target and its potential off-target loci, in order to give thermodynamic advantage to targeted genomic loci over genomic off-targets.

In one aspect, the invention provides for the guide sequence being modified by secondary structure to increase the specificity of the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system and whereby the secondary structure can protect against exonuclease activity and allow for 3′ additions to the guide sequence.

In one aspect, the invention provides for hybridizing a “protector RNA” to a guide sequence, wherein the “protector RNA” is an RNA strand complementary to the 5′ end of the guide RNA (gRNA), to thereby generate a partially double-stranded gRNA. In an embodiment of the invention, protecting the mismatched bases with a perfectly complementary protector sequence decreases the likelihood of target DNA binding to the mismatched base pairs at the 3′ end. In embodiments of the invention, additional sequences comprising an extended length may also be present.

Guide RNA (gRNA) extensions matching the genomic target provide gRNA protection and enhance specificity. Extension of the gRNA with matching sequence distal to the end of the spacer seed for individual genomic targets is envisaged to provide enhanced specificity. Matching gRNA extensions that enhance specificity have been observed in cells without truncation. Prediction of gRNA structure accompanying these stable length extensions has shown that stable forms arise from protective states, where the extension forms a closed loop with the gRNA seed due to complimentary sequences in the spacer extension and the spacer seed. These results demonstrate that the protected guide concept also includes sequences matching the genomic target sequence distal of the 20mer spacer-binding region. Thermodynamic prediction can be used to predict completely matching or partially matching guide extensions that result in protected gRNA states. This extends the concept of protected gRNAs to interaction between X and Z, where X will generally be of length 17-20 nt and Z is of length 1-30 nt. Thermodynamic prediction can be used to determine the optimal extension state for Z, potentially introducing small numbers of mismatches in Z to promote the formation of protected conformations between X and Z. Throughout the present application, the terms “X” and seed length (SL) are used interchangeably with the term exposed length (EpL) which denotes the number of nucleotides available for target DNA to bind; the terms “Y” and protector length (PL) are used interchangeably to represent the length of the protector; and the terms “Z”, “E”, “E′” and EL are used interchangeably to correspond to the term extended length (ExL) which represents the number of nucleotides by which the target sequence is extended.

An extension sequence which corresponds to the extended length (ExL) may optionally be attached directly to the guide sequence at the 3′ end of the protected guide sequence. The extension sequence may be 2 to 12 nucleotides in length. Preferably ExL may be denoted as 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 or 12 nucleotides in length. In a preferred embodiment the ExL is denoted as 0 or 4 nucleotides in length. In a more preferred embodiment the ExL is 4 nucleotides in length. The extension sequence may or may not be complementary to the target sequence.

An extension sequence may further optionally be attached directly to the guide sequence at the 5′ end of the protected guide sequence as well as to the 3′ end of a protecting sequence. As a result, the extension sequence serves as a linking sequence between the protected sequence and the protecting sequence. Without wishing to be bound by theory, such a link may position the protecting sequence near the protected sequence for improved binding of the protecting sequence to the protected sequence.

Addition of gRNA mismatches to the distal end of the gRNA can demonstrate enhanced specificity. The introduction of unprotected distal mismatches in Y or extension of the gRNA with distal mismatches (Z) can demonstrate enhanced specificity. This concept as mentioned is tied to X, Y, and Z components used in protected gRNAs. The unprotected mismatch concept may be further generalized to the concepts of X, Y, and Z described for protected guide RNAs.

Cas9Cas9In one aspect, the invention provides for enhanced Cas9Cas9 specificity wherein the double stranded 3′ end of the protected guide RNA (pgRNA) allows for two possible outcomes: (1) the guide RNA-protector RNA to guide RNA-target DNA strand exchange will occur and the guide will fully bind the target, or (2) the guide RNA will fail to fully bind the target and because Cas9 target cleavage is a multiple step kinetic reaction that requires guide RNA:target DNA binding to activate Cas9-catalyzed DSBs, wherein Cas9 cleavage does not occur if the guide RNA does not properly bind. According to particular embodiments, the protected guide RNA improves specificity of target binding as compared to a naturally occurring CRISPR-Cas system. According to particular embodiments the protected modified guide RNA improves stability as compared to a naturally occurring CRISPR-Cas. According to particular embodiments the protector sequence has a length between 3 and 120 nucleotides and comprises 3 or more contiguous nucleotides complementary to another sequence of guide or protector. According to particular embodiments, the protector sequence forms a hairpin. According to particular embodiments the guide RNA further comprises a protected sequence and an exposed sequence. According to particular embodiments the exposed sequence is 1 to 19 nucleotides. More particularly, the exposed sequence is at least 75%, at least 90% or about 100% complementary to the target sequence. According to particular embodiments the guide sequence is at least 90% or about 100% complementary to the protector strand. According to particular embodiments the guide sequence is at least 75%, at least 90% or about 100% complementary to the target sequence. According to particular embodiments, the guide RNA further comprises an extension sequence. More particularly, the extension sequence is operably linked to the 3′ end of the protected guide sequence, and optionally directly linked to the 3′ end of the protected guide sequence. According to particular embodiments the extension sequence is 1-12 nucleotides. According to particular embodiments the extension sequence is operably linked to the guide sequence at the 3′ end of the protected guide sequence and the 5′ end of the protector strand and optionally directly linked to the 3′ end of the protected guide sequence and the 3′ end of the protector strand, wherein the extension sequence is a linking sequence between the protected sequence and the protector strand. According to particular embodiments the extension sequence is 100% not complementary to the protector strand, optionally at least 95%, at least 90%, at least 80%, at least 70%, at least 60%, or at least 50% not complementary to the protector strand. According to particular embodiments the guide sequence further comprises mismatches appended to the end of the guide sequence, wherein the mismatches thermodynamically optimize specificity.

In one aspect, the invention provides an engineered, non-naturally occurring CRISPR-Cas system comprising a Cas9 protein and a protected guide RNA that targets a DNA molecule encoding a gene product in a cell, whereby the protected guide RNA targets the DNA molecule encoding the gene product and the Cas9 protein cleaves the DNA molecule encoding the gene product, whereby expression of the gene product is altered; and, wherein the Cas9 protein and the protected guide RNA do not naturally occur together. The invention comprehends the protected guide RNA comprising a guide sequence fused 3′ to a direct repeat sequence. The invention further comprehends the Cas9 protein being codon optimized for expression in a Eukaryotic cell. In a preferred embodiment the Eukaryotic cell is a mammalian cell, a plant cell or a yeast cell and in a more preferred embodiment the mammalian cell is a human cell. In a further embodiment of the invention, the expression of the gene product is decreased. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme is Acidaminococcus sp. BV3L6, Lachnospiraceae bacterium or Francisella Novicida Cas9, and may include mutated Cas9 derived from these organisms. The enzyme may be a further Cas9 homolog or ortholog. In some embodiments, the nucleotide sequence encoding the Cfp1 enzyme is codon-optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme directs cleavage of one or two strands at the location of the target sequence. In some embodiments, the first regulatory element is a polymerase III promoter. In some embodiments, the second regulatory element is a polymerase II promoter. In general, and throughout this specification, the term “vector” refers to a nucleic acid molecule capable of transporting another nucleic acid to which it has been linked. Vectors include, but are not limited to, nucleic acid molecules that are single-stranded, double-stranded, or partially double-stranded; nucleic acid molecules that comprise one or more free ends, no free ends (e.g., circular); nucleic acid molecules that comprise DNA, RNA, or both; and other varieties of polynucleotides known in the art. One type of vector is a “plasmid,” which refers to a circular double stranded DNA loop into which additional DNA segments can be inserted, such as by standard molecular cloning techniques. Another type of vector is a viral vector, wherein virally-derived DNA or RNA sequences are present in the vector for packaging into a virus (e.g., retroviruses, replication defective retroviruses, adenoviruses, replication defective adenoviruses, and adeno-associated viruses). Viral vectors also include polynucleotides carried by a virus for transfection into a host cell. Certain vectors are capable of autonomous replication in a host cell into which they are introduced (e.g., bacterial vectors having a bacterial origin of replication and episomal mammalian vectors). Other vectors (e.g., non-episomal mammalian vectors) are integrated into the genome of a host cell upon introduction into the host cell, and thereby are replicated along with the host genome. Moreover, certain vectors are capable of directing the expression of genes to which they are operatively-linked. Such vectors are referred to herein as “expression vectors.” Common expression vectors of utility in recombinant DNA techniques are often in the form of plasmids.

Recombinant expression vectors can comprise a nucleic acid of the invention in a form suitable for expression of the nucleic acid in a host cell, which means that the recombinant expression vectors include one or more regulatory elements, which may be selected on the basis of the host cells to be used for expression, that is operatively-linked to the nucleic acid sequence to be expressed. Within a recombinant expression vector, “operably linked” is intended to mean that the nucleotide sequence of interest is linked to the regulatory element(s) in a manner that allows for expression of the nucleotide sequence (e.g., in an in vitro transcription/translation system or in a host cell when the vector is introduced into the host cell).

Advantageous vectors include lentiviruses and adeno-associated viruses, and types of such vectors can also be selected for targeting particular types of cells.

In one aspect, the invention provides a eukaryotic host cell comprising (a) a first regulatory element operably linked to a direct repeat sequence and one or more insertion sites for inserting one or more guide sequences downstream of the direct repeat sequence, wherein when expressed, the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR complex to a target sequence in a eukaryotic cell, wherein the CRISPR complex comprises a CRISPR enzyme complexed with the guide RNA comprising the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence and/or (b) a second regulatory element operably linked to an enzyme-coding sequence encoding said Cas9 enzyme comprising a nuclear localization sequence. In some embodiments, the host cell comprises components (a) and (b). In some embodiments, component (a), component (b), or components (a) and (b) are stably integrated into a genome of the host eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, component (a) further comprises two or more guide sequences operably linked to the first regulatory element, wherein when expressed, each of the two or more guide sequences direct sequence specific binding of a CRISPR complex to a different target sequence in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme directs cleavage of one or two strands at the location of the target sequence. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme lacks DNA strand cleavage activity. In some embodiments, the first regulatory element is a polymerase III promoter. In some embodiments, the second regulatory element is a polymerase II promoter.

In an aspect, the invention provides a non-human eukaryotic organism; preferably a multicellular eukaryotic organism, comprising a eukaryotic host cell according to any of the described embodiments. In other aspects, the invention provides a eukaryotic organism; preferably a multicellular eukaryotic organism, comprising a eukaryotic host cell according to any of the described embodiments. The organism in some embodiments of these aspects may be an animal; for example a mammal. Also, the organism may be an arthropod such as an insect. The organism also may be a plant or a yeast. Further, the organism may be a fungus.

In one aspect, the invention provides a kit comprising one or more of the components described herein above. In some embodiments, the kit comprises a vector system and instructions for using the kit. In some embodiments, the vector system comprises (a) a first regulatory element operably linked to a direct repeat sequence and one or more insertion sites for inserting one or more guide sequences downstream of the direct repeat sequence, wherein when expressed, the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a Cas9 CRISPR complex to a target sequence in a eukaryotic cell, wherein the CRISPR complex comprises a Cas9 enzyme complexed with the protected guide RNA comprising the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence and/or (b) a second regulatory element operably linked to an enzyme-coding sequence encoding said Cas9 enzyme comprising a nuclear localization sequence. In some embodiments, the kit comprises components (a) and (b) located on the same or different vectors of the system. In some embodiments, component (a) further comprises two or more guide sequences operably linked to the first regulatory element, wherein when expressed, each of the two or more guide sequences direct sequence specific binding of a CRISPR complex to a different target sequence in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme comprises one or more nuclear localization sequences of sufficient strength to drive accumulation of said Cas9 enzyme in a detectable amount in the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme is Acidaminococcus sp. BV3L6, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MA2020 or Francisella tularensis 1 Novicida Cas9, and may include mutated Cas9 derived from these organisms. The enzyme may be a Cas9 homolog or ortholog. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme is codon-optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme directs cleavage of one or two strands at the location of the target sequence. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme lacks DNA strand cleavage activity. In some embodiments, the first regulatory element is a polymerase III promoter. In some embodiments, the second regulatory element is a polymerase II promoter.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method of modifying a target polynucleotide in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a CRISPR complex to bind to the target polynucleotide to effect cleavage of said target polynucleotide thereby modifying the target polynucleotide, wherein the CRISPR complex comprises a Cas9 enzyme complexed with protected guide RNA comprising a guide sequence hybridized to a target sequence within said target polynucleotide. In some embodiments, said cleavage comprises cleaving one or two strands at the location of the target sequence by said Cas9 enzyme. In some embodiments, said cleavage results in decreased transcription of a target gene. In some embodiments, the method further comprises repairing said cleaved target polynucleotide by non-homologous end joining (NHEJ)-based gene insertion mechanisms, more particularly with an exogenous template polynucleotide, wherein said repair results in a mutation comprising an insertion, deletion, or substitution of one or more nucleotides of said target polynucleotide. In some embodiments, said mutation results in one or more amino acid changes in a protein expressed from a gene comprising the target sequence. In some embodiments, the method further comprises delivering one or more vectors to said eukaryotic cell, wherein the one or more vectors drive expression of one or more of: the Cas9 enzyme, the protected guide RNA comprising the guide sequence linked to direct repeat sequence. In some embodiments, said vectors are delivered to the eukaryotic cell in a subject. In some embodiments, said modifying takes place in said eukaryotic cell in a cell culture. In some embodiments, the method further comprises isolating said eukaryotic cell from a subject prior to said modifying. In some embodiments, the method further comprises returning said eukaryotic cell and/or cells derived therefrom to said subject.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method of modifying expression of a polynucleotide in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a Cas9 CRISPR complex to bind to the polynucleotide such that said binding results in increased or decreased expression of said polynucleotide; wherein the CRISPR complex comprises a Cas9 enzyme complexed with a protected guide RNA comprising a guide sequence hybridized to a target sequence within said polynucleotide. In some embodiments, the method further comprises delivering one or more vectors to said eukaryotic cells, wherein the one or more vectors drive expression of one or more of: the Cas9 enzyme and the protected guide RNA.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method of generating a model eukaryotic cell comprising a mutated disease gene. In some embodiments, a disease gene is any gene associated an increase in the risk of having or developing a disease. In some embodiments, the method comprises (a) introducing one or more vectors into a eukaryotic cell, wherein the one or more vectors drive expression of one or more of: a Cas9 enzyme and a protected guide RNA comprising a guide sequence linked to a direct repeat sequence; and (b) allowing a CRISPR complex to bind to a target polynucleotide to effect cleavage of the target polynucleotide within said disease gene, wherein the CRISPR complex comprises the Cas9 enzyme complexed with the guide RNA comprising the sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence within the target polynucleotide, thereby generating a model eukaryotic cell comprising a mutated disease gene. In some embodiments, said cleavage comprises cleaving one or two strands at the location of the target sequence by said Cas9 enzyme. In some embodiments, said cleavage results in decreased transcription of a target gene. In some embodiments, the method further comprises repairing said cleaved target polynucleotide by non-homologous end joining (NHEJ)-based gene insertion mechanisms with an exogenous template polynucleotide, wherein said repair results in a mutation comprising an insertion, deletion, or substitution of one or more nucleotides of said target polynucleotide. In some embodiments, said mutation results in one or more amino acid changes in a protein expression from a gene comprising the target sequence.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method for developing a biologically active agent that modulates a cell signaling event associated with a disease gene. In some embodiments, a disease gene is any gene associated an increase in the risk of having or developing a disease. In some embodiments, the method comprises (a) contacting a test compound with a model cell of any one of the described embodiments; and (b) detecting a change in a readout that is indicative of a reduction or an augmentation of a cell signaling event associated with said mutation in said disease gene, thereby developing said biologically active agent that modulates said cell signaling event associated with said disease gene.

In one aspect, the invention provides a recombinant polynucleotide comprising a protected guide sequence downstream of a direct repeat sequence, wherein the protected guide sequence when expressed directs sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR complex to a corresponding target sequence present in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the target sequence is a viral sequence present in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the target sequence is a proto-oncogene or an oncogene.

In one aspect the invention provides for a method of selecting one or more cell(s) by introducing one or more mutations in a gene in the one or more cell (s), the method comprising: introducing one or more vectors into the cell (s), wherein the one or more vectors drive expression of one or more of: a Cas9 enzyme, a protected guide RNA comprising a guide sequence, and an editing template; wherein the editing template comprises the one or more mutations that abolish Cas9 enzyme cleavage; allowing non-homologous end joining (NHEJ)-based gene insertion mechanisms of the editing template with the target polynucleotide in the cell(s) to be selected; allowing a CRISPR complex to bind to a target polynucleotide to effect cleavage of the target polynucleotide within said gene, wherein the CRISPR complex comprises the Cas9 enzyme complexed with the protected guide RNA comprising a guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence within the target polynucleotide, wherein binding of the CRISPR complex to the target polynucleotide induces cell death, thereby allowing one or more cell(s) in which one or more mutations have been introduced to be selected. In a preferred embodiment of the invention the cell to be selected may be a eukaryotic cell. Aspects of the invention allow for selection of specific cells without requiring a selection marker or a two-step process that may include a counter-selection system.

With respect to mutations of the Cas9 enzyme, when the enzyme is not FnCas9, mutations may be as described herein elsewhere; conservative substitution for any of the replacement amino acids is also envisaged. In an aspect the invention provides as to any or each or all embodiments herein-discussed wherein the CRISPR enzyme comprises at least one or more, or at least two or more mutations, wherein the at least one or more mutation or the at least two or more mutations are selected from those described herein elsewhere.

In a further aspect, the invention involves a computer-assisted method for identifying or designing potential compounds to fit within or bind to CRISPR-Cas9 system or a functional portion thereof or vice versa (a computer-assisted method for identifying or designing potential CRISPR-Cas9 systems or a functional portion thereof for binding to desired compounds) or a computer-assisted method for identifying or designing potential CRISPR-Cas9 systems (e.g., with regard to predicting areas of the CRISPR-Cas9 system to be able to be manipulated—for instance, based on crystal structure data or based on data of Cas9 orthologs, or with respect to where a functional group such as an activator or repressor can be attached to the CRISPR-Cas9 system, or as to Cas9 truncations or as to designing nickases), said method comprising:

using a computer system, e.g., a programmed computer comprising a processor, a data storage system, an input device, and an output device, the steps of:

(a) inputting into the programmed computer through said input device data comprising the three-dimensional co-ordinates of a subset of the atoms from or pertaining to the CRISPR-Cas9 crystal structure, e.g., in the CRISPR-Cas9 system binding domain or alternatively or additionally in domains that vary based on variance among Cas9 orthologs or as to Cas9s or as to nickases or as to functional groups, optionally with structural information from CRISPR-Cas9 system complex(es), thereby generating a data set;

(b) comparing, using said processor, said data set to a computer database of structures stored in said computer data storage system, e.g., structures of compounds that bind or putatively bind or that are desired to bind to a CRISPR-Cas9 system or as to Cas9 orthologs (e.g., as Cas9s or as to domains or regions that vary amongst Cas9 orthologs) or as to the CRISPR-Cas9 crystal structure or as to nickases or as to functional groups;

(c) selecting from said database, using computer methods, structure(s)—e.g., CRISPR-Cas9 structures that may bind to desired structures, desired structures that may bind to certain CRISPR-Cas9 structures, portions of the CRISPR-Cas9 system that may be manipulated, e.g., based on data from other portions of the CRISPR-Cas9 crystal structure and/or from Cas9 orthologs, truncated Cas9s, novel nickases or particular functional groups, or positions for attaching functional groups or functional-group-CRISPR-Cas9 systems;

(d) constructing, using computer methods, a model of the selected structure(s); and

(e) outputting to said output device the selected structure(s);

and optionally synthesizing one or more of the selected structure(s);

and further optionally testing said synthesized selected structure(s) as or in a CRISPR-Cas9 system;

or, said method comprising: providing the co-ordinates of at least two atoms of the CRISPR-Cas9 crystal structure, e.g., at least two atoms of the herein Crystal Structure Table of the CRISPR-Cas9 crystal structure or co-ordinates of at least a sub-domain of the CRISPR-Cas9 crystal structure (“selected co-ordinates”), providing the structure of a candidate comprising a binding molecule or of portions of the CRISPR-Cas9 system that may be manipulated, e.g., based on data from other portions of the CRISPR-Cas9 crystal structure and/or from Cas9 orthologs, or the structure of functional groups, and fitting the structure of the candidate to the selected co-ordinates, to thereby obtain product data comprising CRISPR-Cas9 structures that may bind to desired structures, desired structures that may bind to certain CRISPR-Cas9 structures, portions of the CRISPR-Cas9 system that may be manipulated, truncated Cas9s, novel nickases, or particular functional groups, or positions for attaching functional groups or functional-group-CRISPR-Cas9 systems, with output thereof; and optionally synthesizing compound(s) from said product data and further optionally comprising testing said synthesized compound(s) as or in a CRISPR-Cas9 system.

The testing can comprise analyzing the CRISPR-Cas9 system resulting from said synthesized selected structure(s), e.g., with respect to binding, or performing a desired function.

The output in the foregoing methods can comprise data transmission, e.g., transmission of information via telecommunication, telephone, video conference, mass communication, e.g., presentation such as a computer presentation (e.g. POWERPOINT), internet, email, documentary communication such as a computer program (e.g. WORD) document and the like. Accordingly, the invention also comprehends computer readable media containing: atomic co-ordinate data according to the herein-referenced Crystal Structure, said data defining the three dimensional structure of CRISPR-Cas9 or at least one sub-domain thereof, or structure factor data for CRISPR-Cas9, said structure factor data being derivable from the atomic co-ordinate data of herein-referenced Crystal Structure. The computer readable media can also contain any data of the foregoing methods. The invention further comprehends methods a computer system for generating or performing rational design as in the foregoing methods containing either: atomic co-ordinate data according to herein-referenced Crystal Structure, said data defining the three dimensional structure of CRISPR-Cas9 or at least one sub-domain thereof, or structure factor data for CRISPR-Cas9, said structure factor data being derivable from the atomic co-ordinate data of herein-referenced Crystal Structure. The invention further comprehends a method of doing business comprising providing to a user the computer system or the media or the three dimensional structure of CRISPR-Cas9 or at least one sub-domain thereof, or structure factor data for CRISPR-Cas9, said structure set forth in and said structure factor data being derivable from the atomic co-ordinate data of herein-referenced Crystal Structure, or the herein computer media or a herein data transmission.

A “binding site” or an “active site” comprises or consists essentially of or consists of a site (such as an atom, a functional group of an amino acid residue or a plurality of such atoms and/or groups) in a binding cavity or region, which may bind to a compound such as a nucleic acid molecule, which is/are involved in binding.

By “fitting”, is meant determining by automatic, or semi-automatic means, interactions between one or more atoms of a candidate molecule and at least one atom of a structure of the invention, and calculating the extent to which such interactions are stable. Interactions include attraction and repulsion, brought about by charge, steric considerations and the like. Various computer-based methods for fitting are described further

By “root mean square (or rms) deviation”, we mean the square root of the arithmetic mean of the squares of the deviations from the mean.

By a “computer system”, is meant the hardware means, software means and data storage means used to analyze atomic coordinate data. The minimum hardware means of the computer-based systems of the present invention typically comprises a central processing unit (CPU), input means, output means and data storage means. Desirably a display or monitor is provided to visualize structure data. The data storage means may be RAM or means for accessing computer readable media of the invention. Examples of such systems are computer and tablet devices running Unix, Windows or Apple operating systems.

By “computer readable media”, is meant any medium or media, which can be read and accessed directly or indirectly by a computer e.g., so that the media is suitable for use in the above-mentioned computer system. Such media include, but are not limited to: magnetic storage media such as floppy discs, hard disc storage medium and magnetic tape; optical storage media such as optical discs or CD-ROM; electrical storage media such as RAM and ROM; thumb drive devices; cloud storage devices and hybrids of these categories such as magnetic/optical storage media.

The invention comprehends the use of the protected guides described herein above in the optimized functional CRISPR-Cas enzyme systems described herein.

Formation of a RISC Through Guide Engineering

In some embodiments, the guide may be a protected guide (e.g. a pgRNA) or an escorted guide (e.g. an esgRNA) as described herein. Both of these, in some embodiments, make use of RISC. A RISC is a key component of RNAi. RISC (RNA-induced silencing complex) is a multiprotein, specifically a ribonucleoprotein, complex which incorporates one strand of a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) fragment, such as small interfering RNA (siRNA) or microRNA (miRNA), which acts as a template for RISC to recognize a complementary messenger RNA (mRNA) transcript. The mRNA is thus cleaved by one of the components of the RISC.

As such, the formation of a RISC is advantageous in some embodiments. Guide RNAs according to various aspects of the present invention, including but not limited to protected and/or escorted guide RNAs, may be adapted to include RNA nucleotides that promote formation of a RISC, for example in combination with an siRNA or miRNA that may be provided or may, for instance, already be expressed in a cell. This may be useful, for instance, as a self-inactivating system to clear or degrade the guide.

Thus, the guide RNA may comprise a sequence complementary to a target miRNA or an siRNA, which may or may not be present within a cell. In this way, only when the miRNA or siRNA is present, for example through expression (by the cell or through human intervention), is there binding of the RNA sequence to the miRNA or siRNA which then results in cleavage of the guide RNA an RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) within the cell. Therefore, in some embodiments, the guide RNA comprises an RNA sequence complementary to a target miRNA or siRNA, and binding of the guide RNA sequence to the target miRNA or siRNA results in cleavage of the guide RNA by an RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) within the cell.

This is explained further below with specific reference to both protected and escorted guides.

RISC Formation Through Use of Protected Guides

For example, a protected guide may be described in the following aspect: an engineered, non-naturally occurring composition comprising a Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR associated (Cas) (CRISPR-Cas) system having a protected guide RNA (pgRNA) polynucleotide sequence comprising (a) a protector sequence, (b) a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a eukaryotic cell, (c) a tracr mate sequence, and (d) a tracr sequence wherein (a), (b), (c) and (d) are arranged in a 5′ to 3′ orientation, wherein the protector sequence comprises two or more nucleotides that are non-complementary to the target sequence, wherein when transcribed, the tracr mate sequence hybridizes to the tracr sequence and the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR complex to the target sequence, wherein the CRISPR complex comprises a Type II Cas9 protein complexed with (1) the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence, and (2) the tracr mate sequence that is hybridized to the tracr sequence and wherein in the polynucleotide sequence, one or more of the guide, tracr and tracr mate sequences are modified.

In one aspect, this protected guide system is used for secondary structure protection for 5′ extensions to the sgRNA. For example, Applicants extend the sgRNA such that a miRNA binding site is introduced to make the sgRNA only active when the miRNA binding site is processed and cleaved by the RISC complex machinery. This would not be possible without secondary structure protection since exonuclease processing would start from the 5′ end and cut back towards the sgRNA. By adding a small secondary structure loop 5′ to the added miRNA site, then miRNA may be protected from exonuclease chew back.

RISC Formation Through Use of Escorted Guides

In another example, an escorted guide may be described. In particular, an miRNA Inducible esgRNA is envisaged. Here the escort RNA aptamer sequence is complementary to a target miRNA, so that when the target miRNA is present in a cell incorporated into the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC), there is binding of the escort RNA aptamer sequence to the target miRNA, which results in cleavage of the esgRNA by an RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) within the cell.

In alternative embodiments, a wide variety of primary and secondary structures may be provided at the 5′ end of the esgRNA, designed so that the RISC complex is able to access the miRNA binding site. An esgRNA may have first and second linker sequences, 5′ to a protector sequence. In alternative embodiments, linkers 1 and 2 may for example each independently be 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 nucleotides long, with a protector sequence of 0, 1 or 2 nucleotides in length.

In an exemplary embodiment, induction of esgRNA targeting may be illustrated using miR-122 in a HEK.293 cell system, in which miR-122 is not expressed natively. In the absence of exogenous miR-122, the protected esgRNAs did not mediate targeted EMX1.3 nuclease activity. When exogenous miR-122 is added (100 ng/well) targeted EMX1.3 cutting was observed (as distinct cleavage artifacts visible as electrophoretic variants on gels). This demonstrates that highly expressed endogenous miRNAs can be utilized in systems that provide genetically inducible sgRNAs. Any miRNA may be used in place of miRNA122, with a corresponding sequence readily determined.

For example, an sgRNA may be linked to an “escort” RNA aptamer sequence complementary to an endogenous target miRNA. The target miRNA may form an RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) within the cell. When the target miRNA is present in a cell there is binding of the escort RNA aptamer sequence to the target miRNA, which results in cleavage of the esgRNA by the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) within the cell. Cleavage of the escort releases the active sgRNA.

For example, a protected guide may be described in the following aspect: a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition comprising an escorted single CRISPR-Cas9 guide RNA (esgRNA) comprising:

-   -   an RNA guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target         sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell; and,     -   an escort RNA aptamer sequence,     -   wherein the escort RNA aptamer sequence comprises binding         affinity for an aptamer ligand on or in the cell, or the escort         RNA aptamer sequence is responsive to a localized aptamer         effector on or in the cell,     -   wherein the presence of the aptamer ligand or effector on or in         the cell is spatially or temporally restricted.

The escort RNA aptamer sequence may be complementary to a target miRNA, which may or may not be present within a cell, so that only when the target miRNA is present is there binding of the escort RNA aptamer sequence to the target miRNA which results in cleavage of the esgRNA by an RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) within the cell. Therefore, in some embodiments, the escort RNA aptamer sequence is complementary to a target miRNA, and binding of the escort RNA aptamer sequence to the target miRNA results in cleavage of the esgRNA by an RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) within the cell.

According to the invention, a nucleotide sequence encoding at least one of said guide RNA or Cas protein is operably connected in the cell with a regulatory element comprising a promoter of a gene of interest, whereby expression of at least one CRISPR-Cas system component is driven by the promoter of the gene of interest. “operably connected” is intended to mean that the nucleotide sequence encoding the guide RNA and/or the Cas is linked to the regulatory element(s) in a manner that allows for expression of the nucleotide sequence, as also referred to herein elsewhere. The term “regulatory element” is also described herein elsewhere. According to the invention, the regulatory element comprises a promoter of a gene of interest, such as preferably a promoter of an endogenous gene of interest. In certain embodiments, the promoter is at its endogenous genomic location. In such embodiments, the nucleic acid encoding the CRISPR and/or Cas is under transcriptional control of the promoter of the gene of interest at its native genomic location. In certain other embodiments, the promoter is provided on a (separate) nucleic acid molecule, such as a vector or plasmid, or other extrachromosomal nucleic acid, i.e. the promoter is not provided at its native genomic location. In certain embodiments, the promoter is genomically integrated at a non-native genomic location.

In certain embodiments, a nucleic acid encoding the guide RNA is operably connected in the cell with a regulatory element comprising a promoter of a gene of interest. In certain embodiments, a nucleic acid encoding the Cas is operably connected in the cell with a regulatory element comprising a promoter of a gene of interest. In certain embodiments a nucleic acid encoding the guide RNA is operably connected in the cell with a regulatory element comprising a promoter of a gene of interest and a nucleic acid encoding the Cas is operably connected in the cell with a regulatory element comprising a promoter of a gene of interest. In this latter case, the promoter driving the expression of the guide RNA and the Cas may be the same or may be different. In certain embodiments, a nucleic acid encoding the guide RNA and/or Cas is genomically integrated. In certain embodiments, a nucleic acid encoding the guide RNA and/or Cas is extrachromosomal or episomal. The nucleic acid encoding the guide RNA and the nucleic acid encoding the Cas may reside on the same or different nucleic acid molecules.

The selected DNA sequences which are targeted by the guide RNA(s) according to the invention may be endogenous DNA sequences or exogenous DNA sequences. The selected DNA sequences which are targeted by the guide RNA(s), such as exogenous DNA sequences, according to the invention may be genomically integrated or may be extrachromosomal (e.g. provided on a plasmid or vector). In certain embodiments, the methods as described herein comprise introducing in the cell a vector or plasmid, by means known in the art as described herein elsewhere, said vector or plasmid comprising said selected DNA sequence and said method comprises detection of the modification of said selected DNA sequence on said vector. It will be understood that said vector or plasmid, or at least the selected DNA sequence comprised therein, may be genomically integrated, such as random integration or via homologous recombination. When the selected target DNA sequence is an endogenous sequence, it is preferred that the sequence is selected such that modification thereof has no or minimal impact on the (normal) functioning of the cell. The skilled person will readily identify such sequences by routine analysis or experimentation. In any case, it is preferred that such selected endogenous target DNA sequence does not reside in a coding sequence or ORF of a gene and/or does not reside in regulatory sequences of a gene (such as promoters, enhancers, silencers, etc.).

As described herein elsewhere, the selected target DNA sequence is modified by the action of a functional CRISPR complex (i.e. the guide RNA complexed with the Cas protein, wherein the guide RNA comprises the guide sequence, tracr mate sequence and tracr sequence in 5′ to 3′ orientation, wherein the tracr sequence may or may not be on the same nucleic acid molecule as the guide sequence and tracr mate sequence). As used herein, “modified” essentially corresponds to mutated, i.e. the nucleic acid sequence of the target DNA sequence is altered, as described herein elsewhere, such as comprising point mutations, deletions, substitutions, or insertions of one or more nucleotides.

However as described herein elsewhere, it will also be apparent that in certain embodiments “modified” corresponds to alterations of target loci such as the activation or repression of the transcription of a gene, methylation or demethylation of CpG sites and the like, which may not require point mutations, deletions, substitutions, or insertions of one or more nucleotides. Furthermore as described herein elsewhere, it will also be apparent that reference to a CRISPR-Cas enzyme as “altering” or “modifying” one or more target polynucleotide loci encompasses direct alteration or modification, e.g. via the catalytic activity of the enzyme itself but also indirect alteration or modification, e.g. via a catalytic activity associated with the CRISPR-Cas enzyme such as a heterologous functional domain, e.g. a transcriptional activation domain. In addition, as will be appreciated it is intended that the one or more target polynucleotide loci which are “altered” or “modified” by the action of the CRISPR-Cas enzyme may be comprised in or adjacent the polynucleotide sequence complementary to the guide sequence portion of a guide RNA, e.g. in embodiments wherein the alteration or modification is effected by the catalytic activity of the CRISPR-Cas enzyme itself, e.g. cleavage of DNA by the nuclease activity of the CRISPR-Cas enzyme. However, also encompassed are embodiments wherein one or more target loci to be “altered” or “modified” are at a location distinct from the sequence complementary to the guide sequence portion of the guide RNA, e.g. in embodiments wherein the alteration or modification is effected via a heterologous functional domain associated with the CRISPR-Cas enzyme, e.g. activation or repression of the transcription of a gene. As such, “alteration” or “modification” (or analogous terms) of a target locus means via direct or indirect action of the CRISPR-Cas enzyme, and furthermore the “target locus” to be altered or modified and the “target sequence” which is complementary to the guide sequence portion of the guide RNA may or may not be the same.

In certain embodiments, in the methods according to the invention as described herein the CRISPR-Cas system is multiplexed, i.e. multiple different guide RNAs can be provided. Each guide RNA may target (i.e. hybridize with) a different selected DNA target. Expression of the different guide RNAs may be driven by the promoters of different genes of interest. Accordingly, in certain embodiments, the methods of the invention as described herein are methods for determining expression of more than one, such as at least two genes of interest in a cell comprising providing a cell comprising a CRISPR-Cas system, said CRISPR-Cas system comprising more than one, such as at least two guide RNAs that target a different selected DNA sequence and a Cas protein capable of modifying the selected DNA sequence; whereby each guide RNA is operably connected in the cell with a regulatory element comprising a promoter of a different gene of interest; and determining expression of said genes of interest based on detection of the modification of said respective selected DNA sequences. In certain embodiments, more than one different guide RNA may be operably connected in the cell with a regulatory element comprising a promoter of the same gene of interest. The different guide RNAs may be provided on different nucleic acid molecules or on the same nucleic acid molecule. The respective guide RNAs may be designed such that only modification of a first selected target DNA creates or destroys a second selected target DNA.

In certain embodiments, one or more of the components of the CRISPR-Cas system may be conditionally (e.g. tissue or cell type specific) and/or inducibly (e.g. chemically inducible) expressed in the cell. Inducible and conditional expression systems are described herein elsewhere. In particular embodiments, one or more of the guide RNA(s) may be conditionally and/or inducibly expressed in the cell. In particular preferred embodiments, the Cas may be conditionally and/or inducibly expressed in the cell.

As used herein, the term “targeting” of a selected DNA sequence means that a guide RNA is capable of hybridizing with a selected DNA sequence. As uses herein, “hybridization” or “hybridizing” refers to a reaction in which one or more polynucleotides react to form a complex that is stabilized via hydrogen bonding between the bases of the nucleotide residues. The hydrogen bonding may occur by Watson Crick base pairing, Hoogstein binding, or in any other sequence specific manner. The complex may comprise two strands forming a duplex structure, three or more strands forming a multi stranded complex, a single self hybridizing strand, or any combination of these. A hybridization reaction may constitute a step in a more extensive process, such as the initiation of PGR, or the cleavage of a polynucleotide by an enzyme. A sequence capable of hybridizing with a given sequence is referred to as the “complement” of the given sequence.

As used herein, “expression” or “expressing” refers to the process by which a polynucleotide is transcribed from a DNA template (such as into and mRNA or other RNA transcript) and/or the process by which a transcribed mRNA is subsequently translated into peptides, polypeptides, or proteins. Transcripts and encoded polypeptides may be collectively referred to as “gene product.” If the polynucleotide is derived from genomic DNA, expression may include splicing of the mRNA in a eukaryotic cell. As used herein “expression” of a gene or nucleic acid encompasses not only cellular gene expression, but also the transcription and translation of nucleic acid(s) in cloning systems and in any other context.

The terms “polypeptide”, “peptide” and “protein” are used interchangeably herein to refer to polymers of amino acids of any length. The polymer may be linear or branched, it may comprise modified amino acids, and it may be interrupted by non amino acids. The terms also encompass an amino acid polymer that has been modified; for example, disulfide bond formation, glycosylation, lipidation, acetylation, phosphorylation, or any other manipulation, such as conjugation with a labeling component. As used herein the term “amino acid” includes natural and/or unnatural or synthetic amino acids, including glycine and both the D or I, optical isomers, and amino acid analogs and peptidomimetics.

The terms “subject,” “individual,” and “patient” are used interchangeably herein to refer to a vertebrate, preferably a mammal, more preferably a human. Mammals include, but are not limited to, murines, simians, humans, farm animals, sport animals, and pets. Tissues, cells and their progeny of a biological entity obtained in vivo or cultured in vitro are also encompassed.

In certain embodiments, the methods and cells according to the invention as described herein may be used in screening methods for therapeutic agents, and/or in diagnostic methods. Candidate therapeutic agents may have a different effect of temporal expression profiles, which may be read out according to the methods as described herein.

The terms “therapeutic agent”, “therapeutic capable agent” or “treatment agent” are used interchangeably and refer to a molecule or compound that confers some beneficial effect upon administration to a subject. The beneficial effect includes enablement of diagnostic determinations; amelioration of a disease, symptom, disorder, or pathological condition; reducing or preventing the onset of a disease, symptom, disorder or condition; and generally counteracting a disease, symptom, disorder or pathological condition.

As used herein, “treatment” or “treating,” or “palliating” or “ameliorating” are used interchangeably. These terms refer to an approach for obtaining beneficial or desired results including but not limited to a therapeutic benefit and/or a prophylactic benefit. By therapeutic benefit is meant any therapeutically relevant improvement in or effect on one or more diseases, conditions, or symptoms under treatment. For prophylactic benefit, the compositions may be administered to a subject at risk of developing a particular disease, condition, or symptom, or to a subject reporting one or more of the physiological symptoms of a disease, even though the disease, condition, or symptom may not have yet been manifested.

As used herein, the terms “chimeric RNA”, “chimeric guide RNA”, “guide RNA”, “single guide RNA” and “synthetic guide RNA” refer to the polynucleotide sequence comprising the guide sequence, the tracr sequence and the tracr mate sequence. The term “guide sequence” refers to the about 20 bp sequence within the guide RNA that specifies the target site and may be used interchangeably with the terms “guide” or “spacer”. The term “tracr mate sequence” may also be used interchangeably with the term “direct repeat(s)”. The guide sequence, tracr, and tracr mate sequence may be provided on a single nucleic acid molecule. Alternatively, the guide and tracr mate sequence may be provided on a single nucleic acid molecule, whereas the tracr is provided on a separate nucleic acid molecule.

In general, the CRISPR-Cas or CRISPR system is as used in the foregoing documents, such as WO 2014/093622 (PCT/US2013/074667) and refers collectively to transcripts and other elements involved in the expression of or directing the activity of CRISPR-associated (“Cas”) genes, including sequences encoding a Cas gene, a tracr (trans-activating CRISPR) sequence (e.g. tracrRNA or an active partial tracrRNA), a tracr-mate sequence (encompassing a “direct repeat” and a tracrRNA-processed partial direct repeat in the context of an endogenous CRISPR system), a guide sequence (also referred to as a “spacer” in the context of an endogenous CRISPR system), or “RNA(s)” as that term is herein used (e.g., RNA(s) to guide Cas, such as Cas9, e.g. CRISPR RNA and transactivating (tracr) RNA or a single guide RNA (sgRNA) (chimeric RNA)) or other sequences and transcripts from a CRISPR locus. In general, a CRISPR system is characterized by elements that promote the formation of a CRISPR complex at the site of a target sequence (also referred to as a protospacer in the context of an endogenous CRISPR system). In the context of formation of a CRISPR complex, “target sequence” refers to a sequence to which a guide sequence is designed to have complementarity, where hybridization between a target sequence and a guide sequence promotes the formation of a CRISPR complex. A target sequence may comprise any polynucleotide, such as DNA or RNA polynucleotides. In some embodiments, a target sequence is located in the nucleus or cytoplasm of a cell. In some embodiments, direct repeats may be identified in silico by searching for repetitive motifs that fulfill any or all of the following criteria: 1. found in a 2 Kb window of genomic sequence flanking the type II CRISPR locus; 2. span from 20 to 50 bp; and 3. interspaced by 20 to 50 bp. In some embodiments, 2 of these criteria may be used, for instance 1 and 2, 2 and 3, or 1 and 3. In some embodiments, all 3 criteria may be used.

In embodiments of the invention the terms guide sequence and guide RNA, i.e. RNA capable of guiding Cas to a target genomic locus, are used interchangeably as in foregoing cited documents such as WO 2014/093622 (PCT/US2013/074667). In general, a guide sequence is any polynucleotide sequence having sufficient complementarity with a target polynucleotide sequence to hybridize with the target sequence and direct sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR complex to the target sequence. In some embodiments, the degree of complementarity between a guide sequence and its corresponding target sequence, when optimally aligned using a suitable alignment algorithm, is about or more than about 50%, 60%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 97.5%, 99%, or more. Optimal alignment may be determined with the use of any suitable algorithm for aligning sequences, non-limiting example of which include the Smith-Waterman algorithm, the Needleman-Wunsch algorithm, algorithms based on the Burrows-Wheeler Transform (e.g. the Burrows Wheeler Aligner), ClustalW, Clustal X, BLAT, Novoalign (Novocraft Technologies; available at www.novocraft.com), ELAND (Illumina, San Diego, Calif.), SOAP (available at soap.genomics.org.cn), and Maq (available at maq.sourceforge.net). In some embodiments, a guide sequence is about or more than about 5, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 75, or more nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, a guide sequence is less than about 75, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 12, or fewer nucleotides in length. Preferably the guide sequence is 10 30 nucleotides long. The ability of a guide sequence to direct sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR complex to a target sequence may be assessed by any suitable assay. For example, the components of a CRISPR system sufficient to form a CRISPR complex, including the guide sequence to be tested, may be provided to a host cell having the corresponding target sequence, such as by transfection with vectors encoding the components of the CRISPR sequence, followed by an assessment of preferential cleavage within the target sequence, such as by Surveyor assay as described herein. Similarly, cleavage of a target polynucleotide sequence may be evaluated in a test tube by providing the target sequence, components of a CRISPR complex, including the guide sequence to be tested and a control guide sequence different from the test guide sequence, and comparing binding or rate of cleavage at the target sequence between the test and control guide sequence reactions. Other assays are possible, and will occur to those skilled in the art.

A guide sequence, i.e. an RNA capable of guiding Cas to a genomic target locus, may be selected to target any target sequence. In some embodiments, the target sequence is a sequence within a genome of a cell. Exemplary target sequences include those that are unique in the target genome. For example, for the S. pyogenes Cas9, a unique target sequence in a genome may include a Cas9 target site of the form MMMMMMMMNNNNNNNNNNNNXGG (SEQ ID NO: 6) where NNNNNNNNNNNNXGG (SEQ ID NO: 7) (N is A, G, T, or C; and X can be anything) has a single occurrence in the genome. A unique target sequence in a genome may include an S. pyogenes Cas9 target site of the form MMMMMMMMNNNNNNNNNNNNXGG (SEQ ID NO: 8) where NNNNNNNNNNNNXGG (SEQ ID NO: 9) (N is A, G, T, or C; and X can be anything) has a single occurrence in the genome. For the S. thermophilus CRISPR1 Cas9, a unique target sequence in a genome may include a Cas9 target site of the form MMMMMMMMNNNNNNNNNNNNXXAGAAW (SEQ ID NO: 10) where NNNNNNNNNNNNXXAGAAW (SEQ ID NO: 11) (N is A, G, T, or C; X can be anything; and W is A or T) has a single occurrence in the genome. A unique target sequence in a genome may include an S. thermophilus CRISPR1 Cas9 target site of the form MMMMMMMMNNNNNNNNNNNNXXAGAAW (SEQ ID NO: 12) where NNNNNNNNNNNNXXAGAAW (SEQ ID NO: 13) (N is A, G, T, or C; X can be anything; and W is A or T) has a single occurrence in the genome. For the S. pyogenes Cas9, a unique target sequence in a genome may include a Cas9 target site of the form MMMMMMMMNNNNNNNNNNNNXGGXG (SEQ ID NO: 14) where NNNNNNNNNNNNXGGXG (SEQ ID NO: 15) (N is A, G, T, or C; and X can be anything) has a single occurrence in the genome. A unique target sequence in a genome may include an S. pyogenes Cas9 target site of the form MMMMMMMMNNNNNNNNNNNNXGGXG (SEQ ID NO: 16) where NNNNNNNNNNNNXGGXG (SEQ ID NO: 17) (N is A, G, T, or C; and X can be anything) has a single occurrence in the genome. In each of these sequences “M” may be A, G, T, or C, and need not be considered in identifying a sequence as unique. In some embodiments, a guide sequence is selected to reduce the degree secondary structure within the guide sequence. In some embodiments, about or less than about 75%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%, 5%, 1%, or fewer of the nucleotides of the guide sequence participate in self-complementary base pairing when optimally folded. Optimal folding may be determined by any suitable polynucleotide folding algorithm. Some programs are based on calculating the minimal Gibbs free energy. An example of one such algorithm is mFold, as described by Zuker and Stiegler (Nucleic Acids Res. 9 (1981), 133-148). Another example folding algorithm is the online webserver RNAfold, developed at Institute for Theoretical Chemistry at the University of Vienna, using the centroid structure prediction algorithm (see e.g. A. R. Gruber et al., 2008, Cell 106(1): 23-24; and PA Carr and GM Church, 2009, Nature Biotechnology 27(12): 1151-62).

In general, a tracr mate sequence includes any sequence that has sufficient complementarity with a tracr sequence to promote one or more of: (1) excision of a guide sequence flanked by tracr mate sequences in a cell containing the corresponding tracr sequence; and (2) formation of a CRISPR complex at a target sequence, wherein the CRISPR complex comprises the tracr mate sequence hybridized to the tracr sequence. In general, degree of complementarity is with reference to the optimal alignment of the tracr mate sequence and tracr sequence, along the length of the shorter of the two sequences. Optimal alignment may be determined by any suitable alignment algorithm, and may further account for secondary structures, such as self-complementarity within either the tracr sequence or tracr mate sequence. In some embodiments, the degree of complementarity between the tracr sequence and tracr mate sequence along the length of the shorter of the two when optimally aligned is about or more than about 25%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 97.5%, 99%, or higher. In some embodiments, the tracr sequence is about or more than about 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, or more nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the tracr sequence and tracr mate sequence are contained within a single transcript, such that hybridization between the two produces a transcript having a secondary structure, such as a hairpin. In an embodiment of the invention, the transcript or transcribed polynucleotide sequence has at least two or more hairpins. In preferred embodiments, the transcript has two, three, four or five hairpins. In a further embodiment of the invention, the transcript has at most five hairpins. In a hairpin structure the portion of the sequence 5′ of the final “N” and upstream of the loop corresponds to the tracr mate sequence, and the portion of the sequence 3′ of the loop corresponds to the tracr sequence Further non-limiting examples of single polynucleotides comprising a guide sequence, a tracr mate sequence, and a tracr sequence are as follows (listed 5′ to 3′), where “N” represents a base of a guide sequence, the first block of lower case letters represent the tracr mate sequence, and the second block of lower case letters represent the tracr sequence, and the final poly-T sequence represents the transcription terminator: (1) NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNgtttttgtactctcaagatttaGAAAtaaatcttgcagaagctacaaagataaggctt catgccgaaatcaacaccctgtcattttatggcagggtgttttcgttatttaaTTTTTT (SEQ ID NO: 18); (2) NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNgtttttgtactctcaGAAAtgcagaagctacaaagataaggcttcatgccgaaatca acaccctgtcattttatggcagggtgttttcgttatttaaTTTTTT; (SEQ ID NO: 19) (3) NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNgtttttgtactctcaGAAAtgcagaagctacaaagataaggcttcatgccgaaatca acaccctgtcattttatggcagggtgtTTTTTT; (SEQ ID NO: 20) (4) NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNgttttagagctaGAAAtagcaagttaaaataaggctagtccgttatcaacttgaaaa agtggcaccgagtcggtgcTTTTTT; (SEQ ID NO: 21) (5) NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNgttttagagctaGAAATAGcaagttaaaataaggctagtccgttatcaacttgaa aaagtgTTTTTTT; and (SEQ ID NO: 22) (6) NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNgttttagagctagAAATAGcaagttaaaataaggctagtccgttatcaTTTTT TTT (SEQ ID NO: 23). In some embodiments, sequences (1) to (3) are used in combination with Cas9 from S. thermophilus CRISPR1. In some embodiments, sequences (4) to (6) are used in combination with Cas9 from S. pyogenes. In some embodiments, the tracr sequence is a separate transcript from a transcript comprising the tracr mate sequence.

In some embodiments, candidate tracrRNA may be subsequently predicted by sequences that fulfill any or all of the following criteria: 1. sequence homology to direct repeats (motif search in Geneious with up to 18-bp mismatches); 2. presence of a predicted Rho-independent transcriptional terminator in direction of transcription; and 3. stable hairpin secondary structure between tracrRNA and direct repeat. In some embodiments, 2 of these criteria may be used, for instance 1 and 2, 2 and 3, or 1 and 3. In some embodiments, all 3 criteria may be used.

In some embodiments, chimeric synthetic guide RNAs (sgRNAs) designs may incorporate at least 12 bp of duplex structure between the direct repeat and tracrRNA.

The RNAs to guide Cas, such as Cas9, can comprise CRISPR RNA and transactivating (tracr) RNA. The tracr mate and the tracr sequence can be connected to form a transactivating (tracer) sequence. The tracr mate and the tracr sequence can optionally be designed to form a single guide RNA (sgRNA). Indeed, it is advantageous that the RNAs to guide Cas can comprise chimeric single guide RNA (sgRNA). The tracr sequence and tracr mate sequence along the length of the shorter of the two when optimally aligned can be about or more than about 25%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 97.5%, 99%, or higher. The tracr sequence can be about or more than about 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, or more nucleotides in length.

In a classic CRISPR-Cas systems, the degree of complementarity between a guide sequence and its corresponding target sequence can be about or more than about 50%, 60%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 97.5%, 99%, or 100%; a guide or RNA or sgRNA can be about or more than about 5, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 75, or more nucleotides in length; or guide or RNA or sgRNA can be less than about 75, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 12, or fewer nucleotides in length; and advantageously tracr RNA is 30 or 50 nucleotides in length. However, an aspect of the invention is to reduce off-target interactions, e.g., reduce the guide interacting with a target sequence having low complementarity. Indeed, in the examples, it is shown that the invention involves mutations that result in the CRISPR-Cas system being able to distinguish between target and off-target sequences that have greater than 80% to about 95% complementarity, e.g., 83%-84% or 88-89% or 94-95% complementarity (for instance, distinguishing between a target having 18 nucleotides from an off-target of 18 nucleotides having 1, 2 or 3 mismatches). Accordingly, in the context of the present invention the degree of complementarity between a guide sequence and its corresponding target sequence is greater than 94.5% or 95% or 95.5% or 96% or 96.5% or 97% or 97.5% or 98% or 98.5% or 99% or 99.5% or 99.9%, or 100%. Off target is less than 100% or 99.9% or 99.5% or 99% or 99% or 98.5% or 98% or 97.5% or 97% or 96.5% or 96% or 95.5% or 95% or 94.5% or 94% or 93% or 92% or 91% or 90% or 89% or 88% or 87% or 86% or 85% or 84% or 83% or 82% or 81% or 80% complementarity between the sequence and the guide, with it advantageous that off target is 100% or 99.9% or 99.5% or 99% or 99% or 98.5% or 98% or 97.5% or 97% or 96.5% or 96% or 95.5% or 95% or 94.5% complementarity between the sequence and the guide.

In particularly preferred embodiments according to the invention, the guide RNA (capable of guiding Cas to a target locus) may comprise (1) a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a genomic target locus in the eukaryotic cell; (2) a tracr sequence; and (3) a tracr mate sequence. All (1) to (3) may reside in a single RNA, i.e. an sgRNA (arranged in a 5′ to 3′ orientation), or the tracr RNA may be a different RNA than the RNA containing the guide and tracr sequence. The tracr hybridizes to the tracr mate sequence and directs the CRISPR/Cas complex to the target sequence.

The methods according to the invention as described herein comprehend inducing one or more mutations in a eukaryotic cell (in vitro, i.e. in an isolated eukaryotic cell) as herein discussed comprising delivering to cell a vector as herein discussed. The mutation(s) can include the introduction, deletion, or substitution of one or more nucleotides at each target sequence of cell(s) via the guide(s) RNA(s) or sgRNA(s). The mutations can include the introduction, deletion, or substitution of 1-75 nucleotides at each target sequence of said cell(s) via the guide(s) RNA(s) or sgRNA(s). The mutations can include the introduction, deletion, or substitution of 1, 5, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or 75 nucleotides at each target sequence of said cell(s) via the guide(s) RNA(s) or sgRNA(s). The mutations can include the introduction, deletion, or substitution of 5, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or 75 nucleotides at each target sequence of said cell(s) via the guide(s) RNA(s) or sgRNA(s). The mutations include the introduction, deletion, or substitution of 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or 75 nucleotides at each target sequence of said cell(s) via the guide(s) RNA(s) or sgRNA(s). The mutations can include the introduction, deletion, or substitution of 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or 75 nucleotides at each target sequence of said cell(s) via the guide(s) RNA(s) or sgRNA(s). The mutations can include the introduction, deletion, or substitution of 40, 45, 50, 75, 100, 200, 300, 400 or 500 nucleotides at each target sequence of said cell(s) via the guide(s) RNA(s) or sgRNA(s).

For minimization of toxicity and off-target effect, it will be important to control the concentration of Cas mRNA and guide RNA delivered. Optimal concentrations of Cas mRNA and guide RNA can be determined by testing different concentrations in a cellular or non-human eukaryote animal model and using deep sequencing the analyze the extent of modification at potential off-target genomic loci. Alternatively, to minimize the level of toxicity and off-target effect, Cas nickase mRNA (for example S. pyogenes Cas9 with the D10A mutation) can be delivered with a pair of guide RNAs targeting a site of interest. Guide sequences and strategies to minimize toxicity and off-target effects can be as in WO 2014/093622 (PCT/US2013/074667); or, via mutation as herein.

In some embodiments, the CRISPR system is derived advantageously from a type II CRISPR system. In some embodiments, one or more elements of a CRISPR system is derived from a particular organism comprising an endogenous CRISPR system, such as Streptococcus pyogenes. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the CRISPR system is a type II CRISPR system and the Cas enzyme is Cas9, which catalyzes DNA cleavage. Non-limiting examples of Cas proteins include Cas1, Cas1B, Cas2, Cas3, Cas4, Cas5, Cash, Cas7, Cas8, Cas9 (also known as Csn1 and Csx12), Cas10, Csy1, Csy2, Csy3, Cse1, Cse2, Csc1, Csc2, Csa5, Csn2, Csm2, Csm3, Csm4, Csm5, Csm6, Cmrl, Cmr3, Cmr4, Cmr5, Cmr6, Csb1, Csb2, Csb3, Csx17, Csx14, Csx10, Csx16, CsaX, Csx3, Csxl, Csx15, Csf1, Csf2, Csf3, Csf4, homologues thereof, or modified versions thereof. A preferred Cas enzyme may be identified as Cas9 as this can refer to the general class of enzymes that share homology to the biggest nuclease with multiple nuclease domains from the type II CRISPR system. Most preferably, the Cas9 enzyme is from, or is derived from, SpCas9 or SaCas9. It will be appreciated that SpCas9 or SaCas9 are those from or derived from S. pyogenes or S. aureus Cas9. By derived, Applicants mean that the derived enzyme is largely based, in the sense of having a high degree of sequence homology with, a wildtype enzyme, but that it has been mutated (modified) in some way as described herein It will be appreciated that the terms Cas and CRISPR enzyme are generally used herein interchangeably, unless otherwise apparent. The Cas enzyme can be for instance any naturally-occurring bacterial Cas9 as well as any chimeras, mutants, homologs or orthologs. Many of the residue numberings used herein refer to the Cas9 enzyme from the type II CRISPR locus in Streptococcus pyogenes (annotated alternatively as SpCas9 or spCas9). However, it will be appreciated that this invention includes many more Cas9s from other species of microbes, e.g., orthologs of SpCas9, or Cas9s derived from microbes in addition to S. pyogenes, e.g., SaCas9 derived from S. aureus, St1Cas9 derived from S. thermophilus and so forth. The skilled person will be able to determine appropriate corresponding residues in Cas9 enzymes other than SpCas9 by comparison of the relevant amino acid sequences. Thus, where a specific amino acid replacement is referred to using the SpCas9 numbering, then, unless the context makes it apparent this is not intended to refer to other Cas9 enzymes, the disclosure is intended to encompass corresponding modifications in other Cas9 enzymes.

In some embodiments, the unmodified Cas has DNA cleavage activity, such as Cas9. In some embodiments, the Cas directs cleavage of one or both strands at the location of a target sequence, such as within the target sequence and/or within the complement of the target sequence. In some embodiments, the Cas directs cleavage of one or both strands within about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 50, 100, 200, 500, or more base pairs from the first or last nucleotide of a target sequence. In some embodiments, a vector encodes a Cas that is mutated to with respect to a corresponding wild-type enzyme such that the mutated Cas lacks the ability to cleave one or both strands of a target polynucleotide containing a target sequence. For example, an aspartate-to-alanine substitution (D10A) in the RuvC I catalytic domain of Cas9 from S. pyogenes converts Cas9 from a nuclease that cleaves both strands to a nickase (cleaves a single strand). Other examples of mutations that render Cas9 a nickase include, without limitation, H840A, N854A, and N863A. As a further example, two or more catalytic domains of Cas9 (RuvC I, RuvC II, and RuvC III or the HNH domain) may be mutated to produce a mutated Cas9 substantially lacking all DNA cleavage activity. In some embodiments, a D10A mutation is combined with one or more of H840A, N854A, or N863A mutations to produce a Cas9 enzyme substantially lacking all DNA cleavage activity. In some embodiments, a Cas is considered to substantially lack all DNA cleavage activity when the DNA cleavage activity of the mutated enzyme is about no more than 25%, 10%, 5%, 1%, 0.1%, 0.01%, or less of the DNA cleavage activity of the non-mutated form of the enzyme; an example can be when the DNA cleavage activity of the mutated form is nil or negligible as compared with the non-mutated form. Thus, the Cas may comprise one or more mutations and may be used as a generic DNA binding protein with or without fusion to a functional domain. The mutations may be artificially introduced mutations or gain- or loss-of-function mutations. The mutations may include but are not limited to mutations in one of the catalytic domains (e.g., D10 and H840) in the RuvC and HNH catalytic domains respectively; or the CRISPR enzyme can comprise one or more mutations selected from the group consisting of D10A, E762A, H840A, N854A, N863A or D986A and/or one or more mutations in a RuvC1 or HNH domain of the Cas or has a mutation as otherwise as discussed herein. In one aspect of the invention, the Cas enzyme may be fused to a protein, e.g., a TAG, and/or an inducible/controllable domain such as a chemically inducible/controllable domain. The Cas in the invention may be a chimeric Cas proteins; e.g., a Cas having enhanced function by being a chimera. Chimeric Cas proteins may be new Cas containing fragments from more than one naturally occurring Cas. These may comprise fusions of N-terminal fragment(s) of one Cas9 homolog with C-terminal fragment(s) of another Cas homolog. The Cas can be delivered into the cell in the form of mRNA. The expression of Cas can be under the control of an inducible promoter. Where the enzyme is not SpCas9, mutations may be made at any or all residues corresponding to positions 10, 762, 840, 854, 863 and/or 986 of SpCas9 (which may be ascertained for instance by standard sequence comparison tools). In particular, any or all of the following mutations are preferred in SpCas9: D10A, E762A, H840A, N854A, N863A and/or D986A; as well as conservative substitution for any of the replacement amino acids is also envisaged. The same (or conservative substitutions of these mutations) at corresponding positions in other Cas9s are also preferred. Particularly preferred are D10 and H840 in SpCas9. However, in other Cas9s, residues corresponding to SpCas9 D10 and H840 are also preferred. It is explicitly an object of the invention to avoid reading on known mutations. That is, the mutations known in the art to cause a Cas9 to become a nickase or a Cas9 to become “dead”, e.g., have little or no, e.g., 5% or less than 5%, e.g., less than 4%, 3%, 2% or 1%, nuclease activity as compared to a non-mutated Cas9, are not intended to be within the scope of Cas9 mutations that reduce or eliminate interaction between the guide and off-target nucleic acid molecules, with Applicant reserving the right to employ provisos to exclude such known-“nickase”-or-“dead”-Cas9-resulting mutation. Indeed, the phrase “whereby the enzyme in the CRISPR complex has reduced capability of modifying one or more off-target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme and/or whereby the enzyme in the CRISPR complex has increased capability of modifying the one or more target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme” (or like expressions) is not intended to read upon mutations that only result in a nickase of dead Cas9 or known Cas9 mutations. HOWEVER, this is not to say that the instant invention modification(s) or mutation(s) “whereby the enzyme in the CRISPR complex has reduced capability of modifying one or more off-target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme and/or whereby the enzyme in the CRISPR complex has increased capability of modifying the one or more target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme” (or like expressions) cannot be combined with mutations that result in the enzyme being a nickase or dead. Such a dead enzyme can be an enhanced nucleic acid molecule binder. And such a nickase can be an enhanced nickase. For instance, changing neutral amino acid(s) in and/or near the groove and/or other charged residues in other locations in Cas9 that are in close proximity to a nucleic acid (e.g., DNA, cDNA, RNA, sgRNA to positive charged amino acid(s) may result in “whereby the enzyme in the CRISPR complex has reduced capability of modifying one or more off-target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme and/or whereby the enzyme in the CRISPR complex has increased capability of modifying the one or more target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme”, e.g., more cutting. As this can be both enhanced on- and off-target cutting (a super cutting Cas9), using such with what is known in the art as a tru-guide or tru-sgRNAs (see, e.g., Fu et al., “Improving CRISPR-Cas nuclease specificity using truncated guide RNAs,” Nature Biotechnology 32, 279-284 (2014) doi:10.1038/nbt.2808 Received 17 Nov. 2013 Accepted 6 Jan. 2014 Published online 26 Jan. 2014 Corrected online 29 Jan. 2014) to have enhanced on target activity without higher off target cutting or for making super cutting nickases, or for combination with a mutation that renders the Cas9 dead for a super binder.

Orthologs of SpCas9 can be used in the practice of the invention. A Cas enzyme may be identified Cas9 as this can refer to the general class of enzymes that share homology to the biggest nuclease with multiple nuclease domains from the type II CRISPR system. Most preferably, the Cas9 enzyme is from, or is derived from, spCas9 (S. pyogenes Cas9) or saCas9 (S. aureus Cas9). StCas9″ refers to wild type Cas9 from S. thermophilus, the protein sequence of which is given in the SwissProt database under accession number G3ECR1. Similarly, S pyogenes Cas9 or spCas9 is included in SwissProt under accession number Q99ZW2. By derived, Applicants mean that the derived enzyme is largely based, in the sense of having a high degree of sequence homology with, a wildtype enzyme, but that it has been mutated (modified) in some way as described herein. It will be appreciated that the terms Cas and CRISPR enzyme are generally used herein interchangeably, unless otherwise apparent. As mentioned above, many of the residue numberings used herein refer to the Cas9 enzyme from the type II CRISPR locus in Streptococcus pyogenes. However, it will be appreciated that this invention includes many more Cas9s from other species of microbes, such as SpCas9, SaCa9, St1Cas9 and so forth. Enzymatic action by Cas9 derived from Streptococcus pyogenes or any closely related Cas9 generates double stranded breaks at target site sequences which hybridize to 20 nucleotides of the guide sequence and that have a protospacer-adjacent motif (PAM) sequence (examples include NGG/NRG or a PAM that can be determined as described herein) following the 20 nucleotides of the target sequence. CRISPR activity through Cas9 for site-specific DNA recognition and cleavage is defined by the guide sequence, the tracr sequence that hybridizes in part to the guide sequence and the PAM sequence. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the target sequence should be associated with a PAM (protospacer adjacent motif); that is, a short sequence recognized by the CRISPR complex. The precise sequence and length requirements for the PAM differ depending on the Cas used, but PAMs are typically 2-5 base pair sequences adjacent the protospacer (that is, the target sequence. In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a CRISPR complex to bind to the target polynucleotide to effect cleavage of said target polynucleotide thereby modifying the target polynucleotide, wherein the CRISPR complex comprises a Cas complexed with a guide sequence hybridized to a target sequence within said target polynucleotide, wherein said guide sequence is linked to a tracr mate sequence which in turn hybridizes to a tracr sequence. More aspects of the CRISPR system are in Karginov and Hannon, The CRISPR system: small RNA-guided defense in bacteria and archaea, Mole Cell 2010, January 15; 37(1): 7. The type II CRISPR locus from Streptococcus pyogenes SF370, which contains a cluster of four genes Cas9, Cas1, Cas2, and Csn1, as well as two non-coding RNA elements, tracrRNA and a characteristic array of repetitive sequences (direct repeats) interspaced by short stretches of non-repetitive sequences (spacers, about 30 bp each). In this system, targeted DNA double-strand break (DSB) is generated in four sequential steps. First, two non-coding RNAs, the pre-crRNA array and tracrRNA, are transcribed from the CRISPR locus. Second, tracrRNA hybridizes to the direct repeats of pre-crRNA, which is then processed into mature crRNAs containing individual spacer sequences. Third, the mature crRNA:tracrRNA complex directs Cas to the DNA target consisting of the protospacer and the corresponding PAM via heteroduplex formation between the spacer region of the crRNA and the protospacer DNA. Finally, Cas mediates cleavage of target DNA upstream of PAM to create a DSB within the protospacer. A pre-crRNA array consisting of a single spacer flanked by two direct repeats (DRs) is also encompassed by the term “tracr-mate sequences”). In certain embodiments, Cas may be constitutively present or inducibly present or conditionally present or administered or delivered. Cas optimization may be used to enhance function or to develop new functions, one can generate chimeric Cas proteins. And Cas may be used as a generic DNA binding protein.

Typically, in the context of an endogenous CRISPR system, formation of a CRISPR complex (comprising a guide sequence hybridized to a target sequence and complexed with one or more Cas proteins) results in cleavage of one or both strands in or near (e.g. within 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 50, or more base pairs from) the target sequence. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the tracr sequence, which may comprise or consist of all or a portion of a wild-type tracr sequence (e.g. about or more than about 20, 26, 32, 45, 48, 54, 63, 67, 85, or more nucleotides of a wild-type tracr sequence), may also form part of a CRISPR complex, such as by hybridization along at least a portion of the tracr sequence to all or a portion of a tracr mate sequence that is operably linked to the guide sequence.

In this disclosure, the term “Cas” can mean “Cas9” or a CRISPR enzyme. In the context of the invention, a Cas9 or Cas or CRISPR enzyme is mutated or modified, “whereby the enzyme in the CRISPR complex has reduced capability of modifying one or more off-target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme” (or like expressions); and, when reading this specification, the terms “Cas9” or “Cas” or “CRISPR enzyme and the like are meant to include mutated or modified Cas9 or Cas or CRISPR enzyme in accordance with the invention, i.e., “whereby the enzyme in the CRISPR complex has reduced capability of modifying one or more off-target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme” (or like expressions).

Codon Optimization and Codon Usage for Expressing a Cas Protein

The nucleic acid molecule encoding a Cas is advantageously codon optimized Cas. An example of a codon optimized sequence, is in this instance a sequence optimized for expression in a eukaryote, e.g., humans (i.e. being optimized for expression in humans), or for another eukaryote, animal or mammal as herein discussed; see, e.g., SaCas9 human codon optimized sequence in WO 2014/093622 (PCT/US2013/074667). Whilst this is preferred, it will be appreciated that other examples are possible and codon optimization for a host species other than human, or for codon optimization for specific organs is known. In some embodiments, an enzyme coding sequence encoding a Cas is codon optimized for expression in particular cells, such as eukaryotic cells. The eukaryotic cells may be those of or derived from a particular organism, such as a mammal, including but not limited to human, or non-human eukaryote or animal or mammal as herein discussed, e.g., mouse, rat, rabbit, dog, livestock, or non-human mammal or primate. In some embodiments, processes for modifying the germ line genetic identity of human beings and/or processes for modifying the genetic identity of animals which are likely to cause them suffering without any substantial medical benefit to man or animal, and also animals resulting from such processes, may be excluded. In general, codon optimization refers to a process of modifying a nucleic acid sequence for enhanced expression in the host cells of interest by replacing at least one codon (e.g. about or more than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 50, or more codons) of the native sequence with codons that are more frequently or most frequently used in the genes of that host cell while maintaining the native amino acid sequence. Various species exhibit particular bias for certain codons of a particular amino acid. Codon bias (differences in codon usage between organisms) often correlates with the efficiency of translation of messenger RNA (mRNA), which is in turn believed to be dependent on, among other things, the properties of the codons being translated and the availability of particular transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules. The predominance of selected tRNAs in a cell is generally a reflection of the codons used most frequently in peptide synthesis. Accordingly, genes can be tailored for optimal gene expression in a given organism based on codon optimization. Codon usage tables are readily available, for example, at the “Codon Usage Database” available at www.kazusa.orjp/codon/ and these tables can be adapted in a number of ways. See Nakamura, Y., et al. “Codon usage tabulated from the international DNA sequence databases: status for the year 2000” Nucl. Acids Res. 28:292 (2000). Computer algorithms for codon optimizing a particular sequence for expression in a particular host cell are also available, such as Gene Forge (Aptagen; Jacobus, Pa.), are also available. In some embodiments, one or more codons (e.g. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 50, or more, or all codons) in a sequence encoding a Cas correspond to the most frequently used codon for a particular amino acid.

In certain embodiments, the methods as described herein may comprise providing a Cas transgenic cell in which one or more nucleic acids encoding one or more guide RNAs are provided or introduced operably connected in the cell with a regulatory element comprising a promoter of one or more gene of interest. As used herein, the term “Cas transgenic cell” refers to a cell, such as a eukaryotic cell, in which a Cas gene has been genomically integrated. The nature, type, or origin of the cell are not particularly limiting according to the present invention. Also the way how the Cas transgene is introduced in the cell is may vary and can be any method as is known in the art. In certain embodiments, the Cas transgenic cell is obtained by introducing the Cas transgene in an isolated cell. In certain other embodiments, the Cas transgenic cell is obtained by isolating cells from a Cas transgenic organism. By means of example, and without limitation, the Cas transgenic cell as referred to herein may be derived from a Cas transgenic eukaryote, such as a Cas knock-in eukaryote. Reference is made to WO 2014/093622 (PCT/US13/74667), incorporated herein by reference. Methods of US Patent Publication Nos. 20120017290 and 20110265198 assigned to Sangamo BioSciences, Inc. directed to targeting the Rosa locus may be modified to utilize the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention. Methods of US Patent Publication No. 20130236946 assigned to Cellectis directed to targeting the Rosa locus may also be modified to utilize the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention. By means of further example reference is made to Platt et. al. (Cell; 159(2):440-455 (2014)), describing a Cas9 knock-in mouse, which is incorporated herein by reference. The Cas transgene can further comprise a Lox-Stop-polyA-Lox (LSL) cassette thereby rendering Cas expression inducible by Cre recombinase. Alternatively, the Cas transgenic cell may be obtained by introducing the Cas transgene in an isolated cell. Delivery systems for transgenes are well known in the art. By means of example, the Cas transgene may be delivered in for instance eukaryotic cell by means of vector (e.g., AAV, adenovirus, lentivirus) and/or particle and/or nanoparticle delivery, as also described herein elsewhere.

It will be understood by the skilled person that the cell, such as the Cas transgenic cell, as referred to herein may comprise further genomic alterations besides having an integrated Cas gene or the mutations arising from the sequence specific action of Cas when complexed with RNA capable of guiding Cas to a target locus, such as for instance one or more oncogenic mutations, as for instance and without limitation described in Platt et al. (2014), Chen et al., (2014) or Kumar et al. (2009).

Cas Protein with One or More NLS(s)

In some embodiments, the Cas sequence is fused to one or more nuclear localization sequences (NLSs), such as about or more than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more NLSs. In some embodiments, the Cas comprises about or more than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more NLSs at or near the amino-terminus, about or more than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more NLSs at or near the carboxy-terminus, or a combination of these (e.g. zero or at least one or more NLS at the amino-terminus and zero or at one or more NLS at the carboxy terminus). When more than one NLS is present, each may be selected independently of the others, such that a single NLS may be present in more than one copy and/or in combination with one or more other NLSs present in one or more copies. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the Cas comprises at most 6 NLSs. In some embodiments, an NLS is considered near the N- or C-terminus when the nearest amino acid of the NLS is within about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, or more amino acids along the polypeptide chain from the N- or C-terminus. Non-limiting examples of NLSs include an NLS sequence derived from: the NLS of the SV40 virus large T-antigen, having the amino acid sequence PKKKRKV (SEQ ID NO: 24); the NLS from nucleoplasmin (e.g. the nucleoplasmin bipartite NLS with the sequence KRPAATKKAGQAKKKK) (SEQ ID NO: 25); the c-myc NLS having the amino acid sequence PAAKRVKLD (SEQ ID NO: 26) or RQRRNELKRSP (SEQ ID NO: 27); the hRNPA1 M9 NLS having the sequence NQSSNFGPMKGGNFGGRSSGPYGGGGQYFAKPRNQGGY(SEQ ID NO: 28); the sequence RMRIZFKNKGKDTAELRRRRVEVSVELRKAKKDEQILKRRNV (SEQ ID NO: 29) of the IBB domain from importin-alpha; the sequences VSRKRPRP (SEQ ID NO: 30) and PPKKARED (SEQ ID NO: 31) of the myoma T protein; the sequence PQPKKKPL (SEQ ID NO: 32) of human p53; the sequence SALIKKKKKMAP (SEQ ID NO: 33) of mouse c-abl IV; the sequences DRLRR (SEQ ID NO: 34) and PKQKKRK (SEQ ID NO: 35) of the influenza virus NS1; the sequence RKLKKKIKKL (SEQ ID NO: 36) of the Hepatitis virus delta antigen; the sequence REKKKFLKRR (SEQ ID NO: 37) of the mouse Mx1 protein; the sequence KRKGDEVDGVDEVAKKKSKK (SEQ ID NO: 38) of the human poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase; and the sequence RKCLQAGMNLEARKTKK (SEQ ID NO: 39) of the steroid hormone receptors (human) glucocorticoid. In general, the one or more NLSs are of sufficient strength to drive accumulation of the Cas in a detectable amount in the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell. In general, strength of nuclear localization activity may derive from the number of NLSs in the Cas, the particular NLS(s) used, or a combination of these factors. Detection of accumulation in the nucleus may be performed by any suitable technique. For example, a detectable marker may be fused to the Cas, such that location within a cell may be visualized, such as in combination with a means for detecting the location of the nucleus (e.g. a stain specific for the nucleus such as DAPI). Cell nuclei may also be isolated from cells, the contents of which may then be analyzed by any suitable process for detecting protein, such as immunohistochemistry, Western blot, or enzyme activity assay. Accumulation in the nucleus may also be determined indirectly, such as by an assay for the effect of CRISPR complex formation (e.g. assay for DNA cleavage or mutation at the target sequence, or assay for altered gene expression activity affected by CRISPR complex formation and/or Cas enzyme activity), as compared to a control no exposed to the Cas or complex, or exposed to a Cas lacking the one or more NLSs. In some embodiments, there is no NLS added or fused to the Cas protein.

Delivery of CRISPR System

Through this disclosure and the knowledge in the art, CRISPR-Cas system, specifically the novel CRISPR systems described herein, or components thereof or nucleic acid molecules thereof (including, for instance HDR template) or nucleic acid molecules encoding or providing components thereof may be delivered by a delivery system herein described both generally and in detail.

General Information on Vectors

In general, and throughout this specification, the term “vector” refers to a nucleic acid molecule capable of transporting another nucleic acid to which it has been linked. Vectors include, but are not limited to, nucleic acid molecules that are single-stranded, double-stranded, or partially double-stranded; nucleic acid molecules that comprise one or more free ends, no free ends (e.g., circular); nucleic acid molecules that comprise DNA, RNA, or both; and other varieties of polynucleotides known in the art. One type of vector is a “plasmid,” which refers to a circular double stranded DNA loop into which additional DNA segments can be inserted, such as by standard molecular cloning techniques. Another type of vector is a viral vector, wherein virally-derived DNA or RNA sequences are present in the vector for packaging into a virus (e.g., retroviruses, replication defective retroviruses, adenoviruses, replication defective adenoviruses, and adeno-associated viruses). Viral vectors also include polynucleotides carried by a virus for transfection into a host cell. Certain vectors are capable of autonomous replication in a host cell into which they are introduced (e.g., bacterial vectors having a bacterial origin of replication and episomal mammalian vectors). Other vectors (e.g., non-episomal mammalian vectors) are integrated into the genome of a host cell upon introduction into the host cell, and thereby are replicated along with the host genome. Moreover, certain vectors are capable of directing the expression of genes to which they are operatively-linked. Such vectors are referred to herein as “expression vectors.” Vectors for and that result in expression in a eukaryotic cell can be referred to herein as “eukaryotic expression vectors.” Common expression vectors of utility in recombinant DNA techniques are often in the form of plasmids.

Recombinant expression vectors can comprise a nucleic acid of the invention in a form suitable for expression of the nucleic acid in a host cell, which means that the recombinant expression vectors include one or more regulatory elements, which may be selected on the basis of the host cells to be used for expression, that is operatively-linked to the nucleic acid sequence to be expressed. Within a recombinant expression vector, “operably linked” is intended to mean that the nucleotide sequence of interest is linked to the regulatory element(s) in a manner that allows for expression of the nucleotide sequence (e.g., in an in vitro transcription/translation system or in a host cell when the vector is introduced into the host cell).

The term “regulatory element” is intended to include promoters, enhancers, internal ribosomal entry sites (IRES), and other expression control elements (e.g., transcription termination signals, such as polyadenylation signals and poly-U sequences). Such regulatory elements are described, for example, in Goeddel, GENE EXPRESSION TECHNOLOGY: METHODS IN ENZYMOLOGY 185, Academic Press, San Diego, Calif. (1990). Regulatory elements include those that direct constitutive expression of a nucleotide sequence in many types of host cell and those that direct expression of the nucleotide sequence only in certain host cells (e.g., tissue-specific regulatory sequences). A tissue-specific promoter may direct expression primarily in a desired tissue of interest, such as muscle, neuron, bone, skin, blood, specific organs (e.g., liver, pancreas), or particular cell types (e.g., lymphocytes). Regulatory elements may also direct expression in a temporal-dependent manner, such as in a cell-cycle dependent or developmental stage-dependent manner, which may or may not also be tissue or cell-type specific. In some embodiments, a vector comprises one or more pol III promoter (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more pol III promoters), one or more pol II promoters (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more pol II promoters), one or more pol I promoters (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more pol I promoters), or combinations thereof. Examples of pol III promoters include, but are not limited to, U6 and H1 promoters. Examples of pol II promoters include, but are not limited to, the retroviral Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) LTR promoter (optionally with the RSV enhancer), the cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter (optionally with the CMV enhancer) [see, e.g., Boshart et al, Cell, 41:521-530 (1985)], the SV40 promoter, the dihydrofolate reductase promoter, the β-actin promoter, the phosphoglycerol kinase (PGK) promoter, and the EF1α promoter. Also encompassed by the term “regulatory element” are enhancer elements, such as WPRE; CMV enhancers; the R-U5′ segment in LTR of HTLV-I (Mol. Cell. Biol., Vol. 8(1), p. 466-472, 1988); SV40 enhancer; and the intron sequence between exons 2 and 3 of rabbit β-globin (Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA., Vol. 78(3), p. 1527-31, 1981). It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the design of the expression vector can depend on such factors as the choice of the host cell to be transformed, the level of expression desired, etc. A vector can be introduced into host cells to thereby produce transcripts, proteins, or peptides, including fusion proteins or peptides, encoded by nucleic acids as described herein (e.g., clustered regularly interspersed short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) transcripts, proteins, enzymes, mutant forms thereof, fusion proteins thereof, etc.).

Advantageous vectors include lentiviruses and adeno-associated viruses, and types of such vectors can also be selected for targeting particular types of cells.

In some embodiments, one or more vectors driving expression of one or more elements of a nucleic acid-targeting system are introduced into a host cell such that expression of the elements of the nucleic acid-targeting system direct formation of a nucleic acid-targeting complex at one or more target sites. For example, a nucleic acid-targeting effector enzyme and a nucleic acid-targeting guide RNA could each be operably linked to separate regulatory elements on separate vectors. RNA(s) of the nucleic acid-targeting system can be delivered to a transgenic nucleic acid-targeting effector protein animal or mammal, e.g., an animal or mammal that constitutively or inducibly or conditionally expresses nucleic acid-targeting effector protein; or an animal or mammal that is otherwise expressing nucleic acid-targeting effector protein or has cells containing nucleic acid-targeting effector protein, such as by way of prior administration thereto of a vector or vectors that code for and express in vivo nucleic acid-targeting effector protein. Alternatively, two or more of the elements expressed from the same or different regulatory elements, may be combined in a single vector, with one or more additional vectors providing any components of the nucleic acid-targeting system not included in the first vector. Nucleic acid-targeting system elements that are combined in a single vector may be arranged in any suitable orientation, such as one element located 5′ with respect to (“upstream” of) or 3′ with respect to (“downstream” of) a second element. The coding sequence of one element may be located on the same or opposite strand of the coding sequence of a second element, and oriented in the same or opposite direction. In some embodiments, a single promoter drives expression of a transcript encoding a nucleic acid-targeting effector protein and the nucleic acid-targeting guide RNA, embedded within one or more intron sequences (e.g., each in a different intron, two or more in at least one intron, or all in a single intron). In some embodiments, the nucleic acid-targeting effector protein and the nucleic acid-targeting guide RNA may be operably linked to and expressed from the same promoter. Delivery vehicles, vectors, particles, nanoparticles, formulations and components thereof for expression of one or more elements of a nucleic acid-targeting system are as used in the foregoing documents, such as WO 2014/093622 (PCT/US2013/074667). In some embodiments, a vector comprises one or more insertion sites, such as a restriction endonuclease recognition sequence (also referred to as a “cloning site”). In some embodiments, one or more insertion sites (e.g., about or more than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more insertion sites) are located upstream and/or downstream of one or more sequence elements of one or more vectors. In some embodiments, a vector comprises an insertion site upstream of a tracr mate sequence, and optionally downstream of a regulatory element operably linked to the tracr mate sequence, such that following insertion of a guide sequence into the insertion site and upon expression the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a nucleic acid-targeting complex to a target sequence in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, a vector comprises two or more insertion sites, so as to allow insertion of a guide sequence at each site. In such an arrangement, the two or more guide sequences may comprise two or more copies of a single guide sequence, two or more different guide sequences, or combinations of these. When multiple different guide sequences are used, a single expression construct may be used to target nucleic acid-targeting activity to multiple different, corresponding target sequences within a cell. For example, a single vector may comprise about or more than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, or more guide sequences. In some embodiments, about or more than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more such guide-sequence-containing vectors may be provided, and optionally delivered to a cell. In some embodiments, a vector comprises a regulatory element operably linked to an enzyme-coding sequence encoding a nucleic acid-targeting effector protein. Nucleic acid-targeting effector protein or nucleic acid-targeting guide RNA or RNA(s) can be delivered separately; and advantageously at least one of these is delivered via a particle or nanoparticle complex. Nucleic acid-targeting effector protein mRNA can be delivered prior to the nucleic acid-targeting guide RNA to give time for nucleic acid-targeting effector protein to be expressed. Nucleic acid-targeting effector protein mRNA might be administered 1-12 hours (preferably around 2-6 hours) prior to the administration of nucleic acid-targeting guide RNA. Alternatively, nucleic acid-targeting effector protein mRNA and nucleic acid-targeting guide RNA can be administered together. Advantageously, a second booster dose of guide RNA can be administered 1-12 hours (preferably around 2-6 hours) after the initial administration of nucleic acid-targeting effector protein mRNA+guide RNA. Additional administrations of nucleic acid-targeting effector protein mRNA and/or guide RNA might be useful to achieve the most efficient levels of genome modification.

General Information on Vector Delivery

In certain aspects the invention involves vectors, e.g. for delivering or introducing in a cell Cas and/or RNA capable of guiding Cas to a target locus (i.e. guide RNA), but also for propagating these components (e.g. in prokaryotic cells). A used herein, a “vector” is a tool that allows or facilitates the transfer of an entity from one environment to another. It is a replicon, such as a plasmid, phage, or cosmid, into which another DNA segment may be inserted so as to bring about the replication of the inserted segment. Generally, a vector is capable of replication when associated with the proper control elements. In general, the term “vector” refers to a nucleic acid molecule capable of transporting another nucleic acid to which it has been linked. Vectors include, but are not limited to, nucleic acid molecules that are single-stranded, double-stranded, or partially double-stranded; nucleic acid molecules that comprise one or more free ends, no free ends (e.g. circular); nucleic acid molecules that comprise DNA, RNA, or both; and other varieties of polynucleotides known in the art. One type of vector is a “plasmid,” which refers to a circular double stranded DNA loop into which additional DNA segments can be inserted, such as by standard molecular cloning techniques. Another type of vector is a viral vector, wherein virally-derived DNA or RNA sequences are present in the vector for packaging into a virus (e.g. retroviruses, replication defective retroviruses, adenoviruses, replication defective adenoviruses, and adeno-associated viruses (AAVs)). Viral vectors also include polynucleotides carried by a virus for transfection into a host cell. Certain vectors are capable of autonomous replication in a host cell into which they are introduced (e.g. bacterial vectors having a bacterial origin of replication and episomal mammalian vectors). Other vectors (e.g., non-episomal mammalian vectors) are integrated into the genome of a host cell upon introduction into the host cell, and thereby are replicated along with the host genome. Moreover, certain vectors are capable of directing the expression of genes to which they are operatively-linked. Such vectors are referred to herein as “expression vectors.” Common expression vectors of utility in recombinant DNA techniques are often in the form of plasmids.

Recombinant expression vectors can comprise a nucleic acid of the invention in a form suitable for expression of the nucleic acid in a host cell, which means that the recombinant expression vectors include one or more regulatory elements, which may be selected on the basis of the host cells to be used for expression, that is operatively-linked to the nucleic acid sequence to be expressed. Within a recombinant expression vector, “operably linked” is intended to mean that the nucleotide sequence of interest is linked to the regulatory element(s) in a manner that allows for expression of the nucleotide sequence (e.g. in an in vitro transcription/translation system or in a host cell when the vector is introduced into the host cell). With regards to recombination and cloning methods, mention is made of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/815,730, published Sep. 2, 2004 as US 2004-0171156 A1, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

The vector(s) can include the regulatory element(s), e.g., promoter(s). The vector(s) can comprise Cas encoding sequences, and/or a single, but possibly also can comprise at least 3 or 8 or 16 or 32 or 48 or 50 guide RNA(s) (e.g., sgRNAs) encoding sequences, such as 1-2, 1-3, 1-4 1-5, 3-6, 3-7, 3-8, 3-9, 3-10, 3-8, 3-16, 3-30, 3-32, 3-48, 3-50 RNA(s) (e.g., sgRNAs). In a single vector there can be a promoter for each RNA (e.g., sgRNA), advantageously when there are up to about 16 RNA(s) (e.g., sgRNAs); and, when a single vector provides for more than 16 RNA(s) (e.g., sgRNAs), one or more promoter(s) can drive expression of more than one of the RNA(s) (e.g., sgRNAs), e.g., when there are 32 RNA(s) (e.g., sgRNAs), each promoter can drive expression of two RNA(s) (e.g., sgRNAs), and when there are 48 RNA(s) (e.g., sgRNAs), each promoter can drive expression of three RNA(s) (e.g., sgRNAs). By simple arithmetic and well established cloning protocols and the teachings in this disclosure one skilled in the art can readily practice the invention as to the RNA(s) (e.g., sgRNA(s) for a suitable exemplary vector such as AAV, and a suitable promoter such as the U6 promoter, e.g., U6-sgRNAs. For example, the packaging limit of AAV is ˜4.7 kb. The length of a single U6-sgRNA (plus restriction sites for cloning) is 361 bp. Therefore, the skilled person can readily fit about 12-16, e.g., 13 U6-sgRNA cassettes in a single vector. This can be assembled by any suitable means, such as a golden gate strategy used for TALE assembly (http://www.genome-engineering.org/taleffectors/). The skilled person can also use a tandem guide strategy to increase the number of U6-sgRNAs by approximately 1.5 times, e.g., to increase from 12-16, e.g., 13 to approximately 18-24, e.g., about 19 U6-sgRNAs. Therefore, one skilled in the art can readily reach approximately 18-24, e.g., about 19 promoter-RNAs, e.g., U6-sgRNAs in a single vector, e.g., an AAV vector. A further means for increasing the number of promoters and RNAs, e.g., sgRNA(s) in a vector is to use a single promoter (e.g., U6) to express an array of RNAs, e.g., sgRNAs separated by cleavable sequences. And an even further means for increasing the number of promoter-RNAs, e.g., sgRNAs in a vector, is to express an array of promoter-RNAs, e.g., sgRNAs separated by cleavable sequences in the intron of a coding sequence or gene; and, in this instance it is advantageous to use a polymerase II promoter, which can have increased expression and enable the transcription of long RNA in a tissue specific manner. (see, e.g., http://nar.oxfordjournals.org/content/34/7/e53.short, http://www.nature.com/mt/journal/v16/n9/abs/mt2008144a.html). In an advantageous embodiment, AAV may package U6 tandem sgRNA targeting up to about 50 genes. Accordingly, from the knowledge in the art and the teachings in this disclosure the skilled person can readily make and use vector(s), e.g., a single vector, expressing multiple RNAs or guides or sgRNAs under the control or operatively or functionally linked to one or more promoters—especially as to the numbers of RNAs or guides or sgRNAs discussed herein, without any undue experimentation.

The guide RNA(s), e.g., sgRNA(s) encoding sequences and/or Cas encoding sequences, can be functionally or operatively linked to regulatory element(s) and hence the regulatory element(s) drive expression. The promoter(s) can be constitutive promoter(s) and/or conditional promoter(s) and/or inducible promoter(s) and/or tissue specific promoter(s). The promoter can be selected from the group consisting of RNA polymerases, pol I, pol II, pol III, T7, U6, H1, retroviral Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) LTR promoter, the cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter, the SV40 promoter, the dihydrofolate reductase promoter, the β-actin promoter, the phosphoglycerol kinase (PGK) promoter, and the EF1α promoter. An advantageous promoter is the promoter is U6.

Vector Delivery

Vector delivery, e.g., plasmid, viral delivery: The CRISPR enzyme, for instance a Cas9, and/or any of the present RNAs, for instance a guide RNA, can be delivered using any suitable vector, e.g., plasmid or viral vectors, such as adeno associated virus (AAV), lentivirus, adenovirus or other viral vector types, or combinations thereof. Cas9 and one or more guide RNAs can be packaged into one or more vectors, e.g., plasmid or viral vectors. In some embodiments, the vector, e.g., plasmid or viral vector is delivered to the tissue of interest by, for example, an intramuscular injection, while other times the delivery is via intravenous, transdermal, intranasal, oral, mucosal, or other delivery methods. Such delivery may be either via a single dose, or multiple doses. One skilled in the art understands that the actual dosage to be delivered herein may vary greatly depending upon a variety of factors, such as the vector choice, the target cell, organism, or tissue, the general condition of the subject to be treated, the degree of transformation/modification sought, the administration route, the administration mode, the type of transformation/modification sought, etc.

Such a dosage may further contain, for example, a carrier (water, saline, ethanol, glycerol, lactose, sucrose, calcium phosphate, gelatin, dextran, agar, pectin, peanut oil, sesame oil, etc.), a diluent, a pharmaceutically-acceptable carrier (e.g., phosphate-buffered saline), a pharmaceutically-acceptable excipient, and/or other compounds known in the art. The dosage may further contain one or more pharmaceutically acceptable salts such as, for example, a mineral acid salt such as a hydrochloride, a hydrobromide, a phosphate, a sulfate, etc.; and the salts of organic acids such as acetates, propionates, malonates, benzoates, etc. Additionally, auxiliary substances, such as wetting or emulsifying agents, pH buffering substances, gels or gelling materials, flavorings, colorants, microspheres, polymers, suspension agents, etc. may also be present herein. In addition, one or more other conventional pharmaceutical ingredients, such as preservatives, humectants, suspending agents, surfactants, antioxidants, anticaking agents, fillers, chelating agents, coating agents, chemical stabilizers, etc. may also be present, especially if the dosage form is a reconstitutable form. Suitable exemplary ingredients include microcrystalline cellulose, carboxymethylcellulose sodium, polysorbate 80, phenylethyl alcohol, chlorobutanol, potassium sorbate, sorbic acid, sulfur dioxide, propyl gallate, the parabens, ethyl vanillin, glycerin, phenol, parachlorophenol, gelatin, albumin and a combination thereof. A thorough discussion of pharmaceutically acceptable excipients is available in REMINGTON'S PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES (Mack Pub. Co., N.J. 1991) which is incorporated by reference herein.

In an embodiment herein the delivery is via an adenovirus, which may be at a single booster dose containing at least 1×10⁵ particles (also referred to as particle units, pu) of adenoviral vector. In an embodiment herein, the dose preferably is at least about 1×10⁶ particles (for example, about 1×10⁶-1×10¹² particles), more preferably at least about 1×10⁷ particles, more preferably at least about 1×10⁸ particles (e.g., about 1×10⁸-1×10¹¹ particles or about 1×10⁸-1×10¹² particles), and most preferably at least about 1×10⁰ particles (e.g., about 1×10⁹-1×10¹⁰ particles or about 1×10⁹-1×10¹² particles), or even at least about 1×10¹⁰ particles (e.g., about 1×10¹⁰-1×10¹² particles) of the adenoviral vector. Alternatively, the dose comprises no more than about 1×10¹⁴ particles, preferably no more than about 1×10¹³ particles, even more preferably no more than about 1×10¹² particles, even more preferably no more than about 1×10¹¹ particles, and most preferably no more than about 1×10¹⁰ particles (e.g., no more than about 1×10⁹ articles). Thus, the dose may contain a single dose of adenoviral vector with, for example, about 1×10⁶ particle units (pu), about 2×10⁶ pu, about 4×10⁶ pu, about 1×10⁷ pu, about 2×10⁷ pu, about 4×10⁷ pu, about 1×10⁸ pu, about 2×10⁸ pu, about 4×10⁸ pu, about 1×10⁹ pu, about 2×10⁹ pu, about 4×10⁹ pu, about 1×10¹⁰ pu, about 2×10¹⁰ pu, about 4×10¹⁰ pu, about 1×10¹¹ pu, about 2×10¹¹ pu, about 4×10¹¹ pu, about 1×10¹² pu, about 2×10¹² pu, or about 4×10¹² pu of adenoviral vector. See, for example, the adenoviral vectors in U.S. Pat. No. 8,454,972 B2 to Nabel, et. al., granted on Jun. 4, 2013; incorporated by reference herein, and the dosages at col 29, lines 36-58 thereof. In an embodiment herein, the adenovirus is delivered via multiple doses.

In an embodiment herein, the delivery is via an AAV. A therapeutically effective dosage for in vivo delivery of the AAV to a human is believed to be in the range of from about 20 to about 50 ml of saline solution containing from about 1×10¹⁰ to about 1×10¹⁰ functional AAV/ml solution. The dosage may be adjusted to balance the therapeutic benefit against any side effects. In an embodiment herein, the AAV dose is generally in the range of concentrations of from about 1×10⁵ to 1×10⁵⁰ genomes AAV, from about 1×10⁸ to 1×10²⁰ genomes AAV, from about 1×10¹⁰ to about 1×10¹⁶ genomes, or about 1×10¹¹ to about 1×10¹⁶ genomes AAV. A human dosage may be about 1×10¹³ genomes AAV. Such concentrations may be delivered in from about 0.001 ml to about 100 ml, about 0.05 to about 50 ml, or about 10 to about 25 ml of a carrier solution. Other effective dosages can be readily established by one of ordinary skill in the art through routine trials establishing dose response curves. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 8,404,658 B2 to Hajjar, et al., granted on Mar. 26, 2013, at col. 27, lines 45-60.

Packaging and Promoters Generally

Ways to package Cas9 coding nucleic acid molecules, e.g., DNA, into vectors, e.g., viral vectors, to mediate genome modification in vivo include:

To achieve NHEJ-mediated gene knockout:

Single virus vector:

-   -   Vector containing two or more expression cassettes:     -   Promoter-Cas9 coding nucleic acid molecule-terminator     -   Promoter-gRNA1-terminator     -   Promoter-gRNA2-terminator     -   Promoter-gRNA(N)-terminator (up to size limit of vector) Double         virus vector:     -   Vector 1 containing one expression cassette for driving the         expression of Cas9     -   Promoter-Cas9 coding nucleic acid molecule-terminator     -   Vector 2 containing one more expression cassettes for driving         the expression of one or more guideRNAs     -   Promoter-gRNA1-terminator     -   Promoter-gRNA(N)-terminator (up to size limit of vector)

To mediate homology-directed repair.

-   -   In addition to the single and double virus vector approaches         described above, an additional vector may used to deliver a         homology-direct repair template.

The promoter used to drive Cas9 coding nucleic acid molecule expression can include:

-   -   AAV ITR can serve as a promoter: this is advantageous for         eliminating the need for an additional promoter element (which         can take up space in the vector). The additional space freed up         can be used to drive the expression of additional elements         (gRNA, etc.). Also, ITR activity is relatively weaker, so can be         used to reduce potential toxicity due to over expression of         Cas9.     -   For ubiquitous expression, can use promoters: CMV, CAG, CBh,         PGK, SV40, Ferritin heavy or light chains, etc.     -   For brain or other CNS expression, can use promoters: SynapsinI         for all neurons, CaMKIIalpha for excitatory neurons, GAD67 or         GAD65 or VGAT for GABAergic neurons, etc.     -   For liver expression, can use Albumin promoter.     -   For lung expression, can use SP-B.     -   For endothelial cells, can use ICAM.     -   For hematopoietic cells can use IFNbeta or CD45.     -   For Osteoblasts can use OG-2.

The promoter used to drive guide RNA can include:

-   -   Pol III promoters such as U6 or H1     -   Use of Pol II promoter and intronic cassettes to express gRNA

Crystallization and Structure of CRISPR-Cas9

Crystallization of CRISPR-Cas9 and Characterization of Crystal Structure: The crystals can be obtained by techniques of protein crystallography, including batch, liquid bridge, dialysis, vapor diffusion and hanging drop methods. Generally, the crystals are grown by dissolving substantially pure CRISPR-Cas9 and a nucleic acid molecule to which it binds in an aqueous buffer containing a precipitant at a concentration just below that necessary to precipitate. Water is removed by controlled evaporation to produce precipitating conditions, which are maintained until crystal growth ceases. See Nishimasu et al.

Uses of the Crystals, Crystal Structure and Atomic Structure Co-Ordinates: The crystals, and particularly the atomic structure co-ordinates obtained therefrom, have a wide variety of uses. The crystals and structure co-ordinates are particularly useful for identifying compounds (nucleic acid molecules) that bind to CRISPR-Cas9, and CRISPR-Cas9s that can bind to particular compounds (nucleic acid molecules). Thus, the structure co-ordinates described herein can be used as phasing models in determining the crystal structures of additional synthetic or mutated CRISPR-Cas9s, Cas9s, nickases, binding domains. The provision of the crystal structure of CRISPR-Cas9 complexed with a nucleic acid molecule may provide the skilled artisan with a insight into CRISPR-Cas9. This insight provides a means to design modified CRISPR-Cas9s, such as by attaching thereto a functional group, such as a repressor or activator. While one can attach a functional group such as a repressor or activator to the N or C terminal of CRISPR-Cas9, the crystal structure demonstrates that the N terminal seems obscured or hidden, whereas the C terminal is more available for a functional group such as repressor or activator. Moreover, the crystal structure demonstrates that there is a flexible loop between approximately CRISPR-Cas9 (S. pyogenes) residues 534-676 which is suitable for attachment of a functional group such as an activator or repressor. Attachment can be via a linker, e.g., a flexible glycine-serine (GlyGlyGlySer) (SEQ ID NO: 1) or (GGGS)3 (SEQ ID NO: 40) or a rigid alpha-helical linker such as (Ala(GluAlaAlaAlaLys)Ala) (SEQ ID NO: 41). In addition to the flexible loop there is also a nuclease or H3 region, an H2 region and a helical region. By “helix” or “helical”, is meant a helix as known in the art, including, but not limited to an alpha-helix. Additionally, the term helix or helical may also be used to indicate a c-terminal helical element with an N-terminal turn.

The provision of the crystal structure of CRISPR-Cas9 complexed with a nucleic acid molecule allows a novel approach for drug or compound discovery, identification, and design for compounds that can bind to CRISPR-Cas9 and thus the disclosure provides tools useful in diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of conditions or diseases of multicellular organisms, e.g., algae, plants, invertebrates, fish, amphibians, reptiles, avians, mammals; for example domesticated plants, animals (e.g., production animals such as swine, bovine, chicken; companion animal such as felines, canines, rodents (rabbit, gerbil, hamster); laboratory animals such as mouse, rat), and humans. Accordingly, the disclosure provides a computer-based method of rational design of CRISPR-Cas9 complexes. This rational design can comprise: providing the structure of the CRISPR-Cas9 complex as defined by some or all (e.g., at least 2 or more, e.g., at least 5, advantageously at least 10, more advantageously at least 50 and even more advantageously at least 100 atoms of the structure) co-ordinates of the Crystal Structure Table and/or in Figure(s) concerning the crystal structure; see Nishimasu et al.; providing a structure of a desired nucleic acid molecule as to which a CRISPR-Cas9 complex is desired; and fitting the structure of the CRISPR-Cas9 complex as defined by some or all co-ordinates to the desired nucleic acid molecule, including in said fitting obtaining putative modification(s) of the CRISPR-Cas9 complex as defined by some or all co-ordinates for said desired nucleic acid molecule to bind for CRISPR-Cas9 complex(es) involving the desired nucleic acid molecule. The method or fitting of the method may use the co-ordinates of atoms of interest of the CRISPR-Cas9 complex as defined by some or all co-ordinates which are in the vicinity of the active site or binding region (e.g., at least 2 or more, e.g., at least 5, advantageously at least 10, more advantageously at least 50 and even more advantageously at least 100 atoms of the structure) in order to model the vicinity of the active site or binding region. These co-ordinates may be used to define a space which is then screened “in silico” against a desired or candidate nucleic acid molecule. Thus, the disclosure provides a computer-based method of rational design of CRISPR-Cas9 complexes. This method may include: providing the co-ordinates of at least two atoms of the Crystal Structure Table (“selected co-ordinates”); see Nishimasu et al.; providing the structure of a candidate or desired nucleic acid molecule; and fitting the structure of the candidate to the selected co-ordinates. In this fashion, the skilled person may also fit a functional group and a candidate or desired nucleic acid molecule. For example, providing the structure of the CRISPR-Cas9 complex as defined by some or all (e.g., at least 2 or more, e.g., at least 5, advantageously at least 10, more advantageously at least 50 and even more advantageously at least 100 atoms of the structure) co-ordinates; providing a structure of a desired nucleic acid molecule as to which a CRISPR-Cas9 complex is desired; fitting the structure of the CRISPR-Cas9 complex as defined by some or all co-ordinates in the Crystal Structure Table and/or in Figures concerning the crystal structure; see Nishimasu et al.; to the desired nucleic acid molecule, including in said fitting obtaining putative modification(s) of the CRISPR-Cas9 complex as defined for said desired nucleic acid molecule to bind for CRISPR-Cas9 complex(es) involving the desired nucleic acid molecule; selecting putative fit CRISPR-Cas9-desired nucleic acid molecule complex(es), fitting such putative fit CRISPR-Cas9-desired nucleic acid molecule complex(es) to the functional group (e.g., activator, repressor), e.g., as to locations for situating the functional group (e.g., positions within the flexible loop) and/or putative modifications of the putative fit CRISPR-Cas9-desired nucleic acid molecule complex(es) for creating locations for situating the functional group.

HOWEVER, knowledge of the SpCas9 crystal structure (see Nishimasu et al.) COULD NOT have predicted the reduction of off-target effects achieved by the mutations of the instant invention; or that particular mutations could achieve reduction of off-target effects, as herein disclosed. But, now that, through this disclosure, there is knowledge of mutations that provide or achieve reduction in off-target effects, the skilled person can readily apply the teachings herein, in conjunction with the knowledge of the SpCas9 crystal structure, and the knowledge of Cas9 sequences to make sequence and structural analyses across Cas9s to determine analogous amino acids that can be mutated or modified in a manner analogous hereto, to obtain additional mutated or modified Cas9s wherein the mutation or modification results in reduced off-target effects.

Thus, this disclosure along with the information of the SpCas9 crystal can be practiced using co-ordinates which are in the vicinity of the mutation(s) or modification(s) herein disclosed or an active site or binding region positioned in proximity to such mutation(s) or modification(s); and therefore, the methods of determining additional mutations or modifications of SpCas9 or analogous mutations or modifications in Cas9 orthologs can employ consideration, e.g., comparative consideration of a sub-domain(s) of interest of the CRISPR-Cas9 complex. Methods of determining additional mutations or modifications of SpCas9 or analogous mutations or modifications in Cas9 orthologs can be practiced using coordinates of a domain or sub-domain. The methods can optionally include synthesizing the candidate or desired nucleic acid molecule and/or the CRISPR-Cas9 systems from the “in silico” output and testing binding and/or activity and/or reduction of off-target effects of “wet” or actual mutations or modifications. The CRISPR-Cas9 systems including mutations or modifications and can optionally include a functional group. These methods can include observing the cell or an organism containing the cell for a desired reaction, e.g., reduction of symptoms or condition or disease advantageously including reduction of off-target effects. Providing the structure of a candidate nucleic acid molecule may involve selecting the compound by computationally screening a database containing nucleic acid molecule data, e.g., such data as to conditions or diseases. A 3-D descriptor for binding of the candidate nucleic acid molecule may be derived from geometric and functional constraints derived from the architecture and chemical nature of the CRISPR-Cas9 complex or domains or regions thereof from the crystal structure, taking into consideration mutations or modifications as herein disclosed. In effect, the descriptor can be a type of virtual modification(s) of the CRISPR-Cas9 complex crystal structure herein for binding CRISPR-Cas9 to the candidate or desired nucleic acid molecule. The herein “wet” steps can then be performed using the descriptor and nucleic acid molecules that have putatively good binding.

“Fitting” can mean determining, by automatic or semi-automatic means, interactions between at least one atom of the candidate and at least one atom of the CRISPR-Cas9 complex and calculating the extent to which such an interaction is stable. Interactions can include attraction, repulsion, brought about by charge, steric considerations, and the like. A “sub-domain” can mean at least one, e.g., one, two, three, or four, complete element(s) of secondary structure. Particular regions or domains of the CRISPR-Cas9 include those identified in the Crystal Structure Table and the Figures corresponding thereto; see Nishimasu et al.

In any event, the three-dimensional structure of CRISPR-Cas9 (e.g. S. pyogenes Cas9; see Nishimasu et al.) complex provides in the context of the instant invention an additional tool for identifying additional mutations in orthologs of Cas9 as the positions for mutations/modifications herein-identified can be applied to orthologs of Cas9 based on sequence and structural position comparison using the crystal structure of the CRISPR-SpCas9 complex. The crystal structure can also be basis for the design of new and specific Cas9s, e.g., those that have mutation(s) or modification(s) herein and include or have as a fusion partner or have linked thereto to any one or more of various functional groups, e.g., a transcriptional repressor, a transcriptional activator, a nuclease domain, a DNA methyl transferase, a protein acetyltransferase, a protein deacetylase, a protein methyltransferase, a protein deaminase, a protein kinase, and a protein phosphatase; and, in some aspects, the functional domain is an epigenetic regulator; see, e.g., Zhang et al., U.S. Pat. No. 8,507,272, and it is again mentioned that it and all documents cited herein and all appln cited documents are hereby incorporated herein by reference), by way of modification of Cas9, by way of novel nickases). From this disclosure and knowing the three-dimensional structure of CRISPR-Cas9 (S. pyogenes Cas9) crystal structure, computer modelling programs may be used to design or identify different molecules expected to interact with possible or confirmed sites such as binding sites or other structural or functional features of the CRISPR-Cas9 system (e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9). Compound that potentially bind (“binder”) can be examined through the use of computer modeling using a docking program. Docking programs are known; for example GRAM, DOCK or AUTODOCK (see Walters et al. Drug Discovery Today, vol. 3, no. 4 (1998), 160-178, and Dunbrack et al. Folding and Design 2 (1997), 27-42). This procedure can include computer fitting of potential binders ascertain how well the shape and the chemical structure of the potential binder will bind to a CRISPR-Cas9 system (e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9). Computer-assisted, manual examination of the active site or binding site of a CRISPR-Cas9 system (e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9) may be performed. Programs such as GRID (P. Goodford, J. Med. Chem, 1985, 28, 849-57)—a program that determines probable interaction sites between molecules with various functional groups—may also be used to analyze the active site or binding site to predict partial structures of binding compounds. Computer programs can be employed to estimate the attraction, repulsion or steric hindrance of the two binding partners, e.g., CRISPR-Cas9 system (e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9) and a candidate nucleic acid molecule or a nucleic acid molecule and a candidate CRISPR-Cas9 system (e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9); and the CRISPR-Cas9 crystal structure (S. pyogenes Cas9) herewith enables such methods. Generally, the tighter the fit, the fewer the steric hindrances, and the greater the attractive forces, the more potent the potential binder, since these properties are consistent with a tighter binding constant. Furthermore, the more specificity in the design of a candidate CRISPR-Cas9 system (e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9), the more likely it is that it will not interact with off-target molecules as well. Also, “wet” methods are enabled by the instant invention. For example, in an aspect, the disclosure provides for a method for determining the structure of a binder (e.g., target nucleic acid molecule) of a candidate CRISPR-Cas9 system (e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9) bound to the candidate CRISPR-Cas9 system (e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9), said method comprising, (a) providing a first crystal of a candidate CRISPR-Cas9 system (S. pyogenes Cas9) according to the disclosure or a second crystal of a candidate a candidate CRISPR-Cas9 system (e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9), (b) contacting the first crystal or second crystal with said binder under conditions whereby a complex may form; and (c) determining the structure of said a candidate (e.g., CRISPR-Cas9 system (e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9) or CRISPR-Cas9 system (S. pyogenes Cas9) complex. The second crystal may have essentially the same coordinates discussed herein, however due to minor alterations in CRISPR-Cas9 system (e.g., from the Cas9 of such a system being e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9 versus being S. pyogenes Cas9), wherein “e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9” indicates that the Cas9 is a Cas9 and can be of or derived from S. pyogenes or an ortholog thereof), the crystal may form in a different space group. The disclosure further involves, in place of or in addition to “in silico” methods, other “wet” methods, including high throughput screening of a binder (e.g., target nucleic acid molecule) and a candidate CRISPR-Cas9 system (e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9), or a candidate binder (e.g., target nucleic acid molecule) and a CRISPR-Cas9 system (e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9), or a candidate binder (e.g., target nucleic acid molecule) and a candidate CRISPR-Cas9 system (e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9) (the foregoing CRISPR-Cas9 system(s) with or without one or more functional group(s)), to select compounds with binding activity. Those pairs of binder and CRISPR-Cas9 system which show binding activity may be selected and further crystallized with the CRISPR-Cas9 crystal having a structure herein, e.g., by co-crystallization or by soaking, for X-ray analysis. Having designed, identified, or selected possible pairs of binder and CRISPR-Cas9 system by determining those which have favorable fitting properties, e.g., predicted strong attraction based on the pairs of binder and CRISPR-Cas9 crystal structure data herein, these possible pairs can then be screened by “wet” methods for activity. Consequently, in an aspect the invention can involve: obtaining or synthesizing the possible pairs; and contacting a binder (e.g., target nucleic acid molecule) and a candidate CRISPR-Cas9 system (e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9), or a candidate binder (e.g., target nucleic acid molecule) and a CRISPR-Cas9 system (e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9), or a candidate binder (e.g., target nucleic acid molecule) and a candidate CRISPR-Cas9 system (e.g., S. pyogenes Cas9) (the foregoing CRISPR-Cas9 system(s) with or without one or more functional group(s)) to determine ability to bind. In the latter step, the contacting is advantageously under conditions to determine function. Instead of, or in addition to, performing such an assay, the disclosure may comprise: obtaining or synthesizing complex(es) from said contacting and analyzing the complex(es), e.g., by X-ray diffraction or NMR or other means, to determine the ability to bind or interact. Detailed structural information can then be obtained about the binding, and in light of this information, adjustments can be made to the structure or functionality of a candidate CRISPR-Cas9 system or components thereof. These steps may be repeated and re-repeated as necessary. Alternatively or additionally, potential CRISPR-Cas9 systems from or in the foregoing methods can be with nucleic acid molecules in vivo, including without limitation by way of administration to an organism (including non-human animal and human) to ascertain or confirm function, including whether a desired outcome (e.g., reduction of symptoms, treatment) results therefrom.

The disclosure further involves a method of determining three dimensional structures of CRISPR-cas systems or complex(es) of unknown structure by using the structural co-ordinates of documents discussed herein, especially if adjusted as to modification(s) or mutation(s) discussed herein. For example, if X-ray crystallographic or NMR spectroscopic data are provided for a CRISPR-Cas system or complex of unknown crystal structure, the structure of a CRISPR-Cas9 complex may be used to interpret that data to provide a likely structure for the unknown system or complex by such techniques as by phase modeling in the case of X-ray crystallography. Thus, a method can comprise: aligning a representation of the CRISPR-Cas system or complex having an unknown crystal structure with an analogous representation of the CRISPR-Cas9 system and complex of the crystal structure of herein-cited documents (advantageously adjusted as to modification(s) or mutation(s) herein, to match homologous or analogous regions (e.g., homologous or analogous sequences); modeling the structure of the matched homologous or analogous regions (e.g., sequences) of the CRISPR-Cas system or complex of unknown crystal structure; and, determining a conformation (e.g. taking into consideration favorable interactions should be formed so that a low energy conformation is formed) for the unknown crystal structure which substantially preserves the structure of said matched homologous regions. “Homologous regions” describes, for example as to amino acids, amino acid residues in two sequences that are identical or have similar, e.g., aliphatic, aromatic, polar, negatively charged, or positively charged, side-chain chemical groups. Homologous regions as to nucleic acid molecules can include at least 85% or 86% or 87% or 88% or 89% or 90% or 91% or 92% or 93% or 94% or 95% or 96% or 97% or 98% or 99% homology or identity. Identical and similar regions are sometimes described as being respectively “invariant” and “conserved” by those skilled in the art. Advantageously, the first and third steps are performed by computer modeling. Homology modeling is a technique that is well known to those skilled in the art (see, e.g., Greer, Science vol. 228 (1985) 1055, and Blundell et al. Eur J Biochem vol 172 (1988), 513). The computer representation of the conserved regions of the CRISPR-Cas9 crystal structure herein and those of a CRISPR-Cas system of unknown crystal structure aid in the prediction and determination of the crystal structure of the CRISPR-Cas system of unknown crystal structure. Further still, the aspects of the invention which employ the CRISPR-Cas9 crystal structure in silico may be equally applied to the new mutation(s) or modification(s) herein and the CRISPR-Cas crystal structure. In this fashion, a library of CRISPR-Cas crystal structures can be obtained. Rational CRISPR-Cas system design is thus provided by the instant disclosure. For instance, having determined a conformation or crystal structure of a CRISPR-Cas system or complex, by the methods described herein (including taking into account the knowledge in the art from documents cited herein), such a conformation may be used in a computer-based methods herein for determining the conformation or crystal structure of other CRISPR-Cas systems or complexes whose crystal structures are yet unknown. Data from all of these crystal structures can be in a database, and the herein methods can be more robust by having herein comparisons involving the herein crystal structure or portions thereof be with respect to one or more crystal structures in the library. The disclosure further provides systems, such as computer systems, intended to generate structures and/or perform rational design of a CRISPR-cas system or complex. The system can contain: atomic co-ordinate data or be derived therefrom e.g., by modeling, said data defining the three-dimensional structure of a CRISPR-cas system or complex or at least one domain or sub-domain thereof, or structure factor data therefor, said structure factor data being derivable from the atomic co-ordinate data. The disclosure also involves computer readable media with: atomic co-ordinate data, said data defining the three-dimensional structure of a CRISPR-cas system or complex or at least one domain or sub-domain thereof, or structure factor data therefor. “Computer readable media” refers to any media which can be read and accessed directly by a computer, and includes, but is not limited to: magnetic storage media; optical storage media; electrical storage media; cloud storage and hybrids of these categories. By providing such computer readable media, the atomic co-ordinate data can be routinely accessed for modeling or other “in silico” methods. The disclosure further comprehends methods of doing business by providing access to such computer readable media, for instance on a subscription basis, via the Internet or a global communication/computer network; or, the computer system can be available to a user, on a subscription basis. A “computer system” refers to the hardware means, software means and data storage means used to analyze the atomic co-ordinate data of the present invention. The minimum hardware means of computer-based systems of the invention may comprise a central processing unit (CPU), input means, output means, and data storage means. Desirably, a display or monitor is provided to visualize structure data. The disclosure further comprehends methods of transmitting information herein or obtained in any method or step thereof described herein, e.g., via telecommunications, telephone, mass communications, mass media, presentations, internet, email, etc. The crystal structures of the disclosure can be analyzed to generate Fourier electron density map(s) of CRISPR-cas systems or complexes. Fourier electron density maps can be calculated based on X-ray diffraction patterns. These maps can then be used to determine aspects of binding or other interactions. Electron density maps can be calculated using known programs such as those from the CCP4 computer package (Collaborative Computing Project, No. 4. The CCP4 Suite: Programs for Protein Crystallography, Acta Crystallographica, D50, 1994, 760-763). For map visualization and model building programs such as “QUANTA” (1994, San Diego, Calif.: Molecular Simulations, Jones et al., Acta Crystallography A47 (1991), 110-119) can be used.

The herein-referenced Crystal Structure gives atomic co-ordinate data for a CRISPR-Cas9 (S. pyogenes), and lists each atom by a unique number; the chemical element and its position for each amino acid residue (as determined by electron density maps and antibody sequence comparisons), the amino acid residue in which the element is located, the chain identifier, the number of the residue, co-ordinates (e.g., X, Y, Z) which define with respect to the crystallographic axes the atomic position (in angstroms) of the respective atom, the occupancy of the atom in the respective position, “B”, isotropic displacement parameter (in angstroms²) which accounts for movement of the atom around its atomic center, and atomic number.

In particular embodiments of the invention, the conformational variations in the crystal structures of the CRISPR-Cas9 system or of components of the CRISPR-Cas9 provide important and critical information about the flexibility or movement of protein structure regions relative to nucleotide (RNA or DNA) structure regions that may be important for CRISPR-Cas system function. The structural information provided for Cas9 (e.g. S. pyogenes Cas9: Crystal structure of cas9 in complex with guide RNA and target DNA. Nishimasu, H., Ran, F A., Hsu, P D., Konermann, S., Shehata, S I., Dohmae, N., Ishitani, R., Zhang, F., Nureki, O. Cell February 27. (2014). 156(5):935-49; or Sa Cas9: Crystal Structure of Staphylococcus aureus Cas9, Nishimasu et al., Cell 162, 1113-1126 (Aug. 27, 2015)) as the CRISPR enzyme in the present application may be used to further engineer and optimize the CRISPR-Cas system and this may be extrapolated to interrogate structure-function relationships in other CRISPR enzyme systems as well. An aspect of the invention relates to the crystal structure of S. pyogenes Cas9 in complex with sgRNA and its target DNA at 2.4 Å resolution. The structure revealed a bilobed architecture composed of target recognition and nuclease lobes, accommodating a sgRNA:DNA duplex in a positively-charged groove at their interface. The recognition lobe is essential for sgRNA and DNA binding and the nuclease lobe contains the HNH and RuvC nuclease domains, which are properly positioned for the cleavage of complementary and non-complementary strands of the target DNA, respectively. This high-resolution structure and the functional analyses provided herein elucidate the molecular mechanism of RNA-guided DNA targeting by Cas9, and provides an abundance of information for generating optimized CRISPR-Cas systems and components thereof.

In particular embodiments of the invention, the crystal structure provides a critical step towards understanding the molecular mechanism of RNA-guided DNA targeting by Cas9. The structural and functional analyses herein provide a useful scaffold for rational engineering of Cas9-based genome modulating technologies and may provide guidance as to Cas9-mediated recognition of PAM sequences on the target DNA or mismatch tolerance between the sgRNA:DNA duplex. Aspects of the invention also relate to truncation mutants, e.g. an S. pyogenes Cas9 truncation mutant may facilitate packaging of Cas9 into size-constrained viral vectors for in vivo and therapeutic applications. Similarly, engineering of the PAM Interacting (PI) domain may allow programing of PAM specificity, improve target site recognition fidelity, and increase the versatility of the Cas9 genome engineering platform. Further, engineering of the PAM Interacting (PI) domain may allow programing of PAM specificity, improve target site recognition fidelity, and increase the versatility of the Cas, e.g. Cas9, genome engineering platform. Cas proteins, such as Cas9 proteins may be engineered to alter their PAM specificity, for example as described in Kleinstiver B P et al. Engineered CRISPR-Cas9 nucleases with altered PAM specificities. Nature. 2015 Jul. 23; 523(7561):481-5. doi: 10. 1038/nature14592.

The invention comprehends optimized functional CRISPR-Cas enzyme systems. In particular the CRISPR enzyme comprises one or more mutations that converts it to a DNA binding protein to which functional domains exhibiting a function of interest may be recruited or appended or inserted or attached. In certain embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme comprises one or more mutations which include but are not limited to D10A, E762A, H840A, N854A, N863A or D986A (based on the amino acid position numbering of a S. pyogenes Cas9) and/or the one or more mutations is in a RuvC1 or HNH domain of the CRISPR enzyme or is a mutation as otherwise as discussed herein. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme has one or more mutations in a catalytic domain, wherein when transcribed, the tracr mate sequence hybridizes to the tracr sequence and the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR complex to the target sequence, and wherein the enzyme further comprises a functional domain.

The structural information provided herein allows for interrogation of sgRNA (or chimeric RNA) interaction with the target DNA and the CRISPR enzyme (e.g. Cas9) permitting engineering or alteration of sgRNA structure to optimize functionality of the entire CRISPR-Cas system. For example, loops of the sgRNA may be extended, without colliding with the Cas9 protein by the insertion of distinct RNA loop(s) or distinct sequence(s) that may recruit adaptor proteins that can bind to the distinct RNA loop(s) or distinct sequence(s).

Functional Variants of Enzymes of the Invention

In embodiments, the Cas9 protein as referred to herein also encompasses a functional variant. A “functional variant” of a protein as used herein refers to a variant of such protein which retains at least partially the activity of that protein. Functional variants may include mutants (which may be insertion, deletion, or replacement mutants), including polymorphs, etc. Also included within functional variants are fusion products of such protein with another, usually unrelated, nucleic acid, protein, polypeptide or peptide. Functional variants may be naturally occurring or may be man-made. Advantageous embodiments can involve engineered or non-naturally occurring Type II RNA-targeting effector protein, e.g., Cas9 or an ortholog or homolog thereof.

General Information on Protein Mutation as Per the Present Invention

The invention comprehends a CRISPR Cas complex comprising a CRISPR enzyme and a guide RNA (sgRNA), wherein the CRISPR enzyme comprises at least one mutation, such that the CRISPR enzyme has no more than 5% of the nuclease activity of the CRISPR enzyme not having the at least one mutation and, optional, at least one or more nuclear localization sequences; the guide RNA (sgRNA) comprises a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell; and wherein: the CRISPR enzyme is associated with two or more functional domains; or at least one loop of the sgRNA is modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins, and wherein the adaptor protein is associated with two or more functional domains; or the CRISPR enzyme is associated with one or more functional domains and at least one loop of the sgRNA is modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins, and wherein the adaptor protein is associated with one or more functional domains.

Functional Domains and Adaptor Proteins; Aptamers

The adaptor proteins may include but are not limited to orthogonal RNA-binding protein/aptamer combinations that exist within the diversity of bacteriophage coat proteins. A list of such coat proteins includes, but is not limited to: Qβ, F2, GA, fr, JP501, M12, R17, BZ13, JP34, JP500, KU1, M11, MX1, TW18, VK, SP, FI, ID2, NL95, TW19, AP205, ϕCb5, ϕCb8r, ϕCb12r, ϕCb23r, 7s and PRR1. These adaptor proteins or orthogonal RNA binding proteins can further recruit effector proteins or fusions which comprise one or more functional domains. In some embodiments, the functional domain may be selected from the group consisting of: transposase domain, integrase domain, recombinase domain, resolvase domain, invertase domain, protease domain, DNA methyltransferase domain, DNA hydroxylmethylase domain, DNA demethylase domain, deaminase, histone acetylase domain, histone deacetylases domain, nuclease domain, repressor domain, activator domain, nuclear-localization signal domains, transcription-regulatory protein (or transcription complex recruiting) domain, cellular uptake activity associated domain, nucleic acid binding domain, antibody presentation domain, histone modifying enzymes, recruiter of histone modifying enzymes; inhibitor of histone modifying enzymes, histone methyltransferase, histone demethylase, histone kinase, histone phosphatase, histone ribosylase, histone deribosylase, histone ubiquitinase, histone deubiquitinase, histone biotinase and histone tail protease.

In some preferred embodiments, the functional domain is a transcriptional activation domain, preferably VP64. In some embodiments, the functional domain is a transcription repression domain, preferably KRAB. In some embodiments, the transcription repression domain is SID, or concatemers of SID (eg SID4×). In some embodiments, the functional domain is an epigenetic modifying domain, such that an epigenetic modifying enzyme is provided. In some embodiments, the functional domain is an activation domain, which may be the P65 activation domain. In some embodiments, the functional domain is a deaminase, such as a cytidine deaminase. Cytidine deaminase may be directed to a target nucleic acid to where it directs conversion of cytidine to uridine, resulting in C to T substitutions (G to A on the complementary strand). In such an embodiment, nucleotide substitutions can be effected without DNA cleavage.

In one aspect surveyor analysis is used for identification of indel activity/nuclease activity. In general survey analysis includes extraction of genomic DNA, PCR amplification of the genomic region flanking the CRISPR target site, purification of products, re-annealing to enable heteroduplex formation. After re-annealing, products are treated with SURVEYOR nuclease and SURVEYOR enhancer S (Transgenomics) following the manufacturer's recommended protocol. Analysis may be performed with poly-acrylamide gels according to known methods. Quantification may be based on relative band intensities.

***Inducible Enzyme and Split Enzyme (“Split-Cas9”)

In an aspect the invention provides a non-naturally occurring or engineered inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, comprising:

a first Cas9 fusion construct attached to a first half of an inducible dimer and a second Cas9 fusion construct attached to a second half of the inducible dimer,

-   -   wherein the first Cas9 fusion construct is operably linked to         one or more nuclear localization signals,     -   wherein the second Cas9 fusion construct is operably linked to         one or more nuclear export signals,     -   wherein contact with an inducer energy source brings the first         and second halves of the inducible dimer together,     -   wherein bringing the first and second halves of the inducible         dimer together allows the first and second Cas9 fusion         constructs to constitute a functional Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system,     -   wherein the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system comprises a guide RNA (gRNA)         comprising a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target         sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell, and     -   wherein the functional Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system binds to the         target sequence and, optionally, edits the genomic locus to         alter gene expression.

In an aspect of the invention in the inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, the inducible dimer is or comprises or consists essentially of or consists of an inducible heterodimer. In an aspect, in inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, the first half or a first portion or a first fragment of the inducible heterodimer is or comprises or consists of or consists essentially of an FKBP, optionally FKBP12. In an aspect of the invention, in the inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, the second half or a second portion or a second fragment of the inducible heterodimer is or comprises or consists of or consists essentially of FRB. In an aspect of the invention, in the inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, the arrangement of the first Cas9 fusion construct is or comprises or consists of or consists essentially of N′ terminal Cas9 part-FRB-NES. In an aspect of the invention, in the inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, the arrangement of the first Cas9 fusion construct is or comprises or consists of or consists essentially of NES-N′ terminal Cas9 part-FRB-NES. In an aspect of the invention, in the inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, the arrangement of the second Cas9 fusion construct is or comprises or consists essentially of or consists of C′ terminal Cas9 part-FKBP-NLS. In an aspect the invention provides in the inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, the arrangement of the second Cas9 fusion construct is or comprises or consists of or consists essentially of NLS-C′ terminal Cas9 part-FKBP-NLS. In an aspect, in inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system there can be a linker that separates the Cas9 part from the half or portion or fragment of the inducible dimer. In an aspect, in the inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, the inducer energy source is or comprises or consists essentially of or consists of rapamycin. In an aspect, in inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, the inducible dimer is an inducible homodimer. In an aspect, in inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, the Cas9 is FnCas9. In an aspect, in the inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, one or more functional domains are associated with one or both parts of the Cas9, e.g., the functional domains optionally including a transcriptional activator, a transcriptional or a nuclease such as a Fok1 nuclease. In an aspect, in the inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, the functional Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system binds to the target sequence and the enzyme is a dead-Cas9, optionally having a diminished nuclease activity of at least 97%, or 100% (or no more than 3% and advantageously 0% nuclease activity) as compared with the Cas9 not having the at least one mutation. The invention further comprehends and an aspect of the invention provides, a polynucleotide encoding the inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system as herein discussed.

In an aspect, the invention provides a vector for delivery of the first Cas9 fusion construct, attached to a first half or portion or fragment of an inducible dimer and operably linked to one or more nuclear localization signals, according as herein discussed. In an aspect, the invention provides a vector for delivery of the second Cas9 fusion construct, attached to a second half or portion or fragment of an inducible dimer and operably linked to one or more nuclear export signals.

In an aspect, the invention provides a vector for delivery of both: the first Cas9 fusion construct, attached to a first half or portion or fragment of an inducible dimer and operably linked to one or more nuclear localization signals, as herein discussed; and the second Cas9 fusion construct, attached to a second half or portion or fragment of an inducible dimer and operably linked to one or more nuclear export signals, as herein discussed.

In an aspect, the vector can be single plasmid or expression cassette.

The invention, in an aspect, provides a eukaryotic host cell or cell line transformed with any of the vectors herein discussed or expressing the inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system as herein discussed.

The invention, in an aspect provides, a transgenic organism transformed with any of the vectors herein discussed or expressing the inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system herein discussed, or the progeny thereof. In an aspect, the invention provides a model organism which constitutively expresses the inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system as herein discussed.

In an aspect, the invention provides non-naturally occurring or engineered inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, comprising:

a first Cas9 fusion construct attached to a first half of an inducible heterodimer and a second Cas9 fusion construct attached to a second half of the inducible heterodimer,

-   -   wherein the first Cas9 fusion construct is operably linked to         one or more nuclear localization signals,     -   wherein the second Cas9 fusion construct is operably linked to a         nuclear export signal,     -   wherein contact with an inducer energy source brings the first         and second halves of the inducible heterodimer together,     -   wherein bringing the first and second halves of the inducible         heterodimer together allows the first and second Cas9 fusion         constructs to constitute a functional Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system,     -   wherein the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system comprises a guide RNA (gRNA)         comprising a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target         sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell, and     -   wherein the functional Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system edits the genomic         locus to alter gene expression.

In an aspect, the invention provides a method of treating a subject in need thereof, comprising inducing gene editing by transforming the subject with the polynucleotide as herein discussed or any of the vectors herein discussed and administering an inducer energy source to the subject. The invention comprehends uses of such a polynucleotide or vector in the manufacture of a medicament, e.g., such a medicament for treating a subject or for such a method of treating a subject. The invention comprehends the polynucleotide as herein discussed or any of the vectors herein discussed for use in a method of treating a subject in need thereof comprising inducing gene editing, wherein the method further comprises administering an inducer energy source to the subject. In an aspect, in the method, a repair template is also provided, for example delivered by a vector comprising said repair template.

The invention also provides a method of treating a subject in need thereof, comprising inducing transcriptional activation or repression by transforming the subject with the polynucleotide herein discussed or any of the vectors herein discussed, wherein said polynucleotide or vector encodes or comprises the catalytically inactive Cas9 and one or more associated functional domains as herein discussed; the method further comprising administering an inducer energy source to the subject. The invention also provides the polynucleotide herein discussed or any of the vectors herein discussed for use in a method of treating a subject in need thereof comprising inducing transcriptional activation or repression, wherein the method further comprises administering an inducer energy source to the subject.

Accordingly, the invention comprehends inter alia homodimers as well as heterodimers, dead-Cas9 or Cas9 having essentially no nuclease activity, e.g., through mutation, systems or complexes wherein there is one or more NLS and/or one or more NES; functional domain(s) linked to split Cas9; methods, including methods of treatment, and uses.

It will be appreciated that where reference is made herein to Cas9, Cas9 protein or Cas9 enzyme, this includes the present split Cas9. In one aspect, the invention provides a method for altering or modifying expression of a gene product. The said method may comprise introducing into a cell containing and expressing a DNA molecule encoding the gene product an engineered, non-naturally occurring Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system comprising a Cas9 protein and guide RNA that targets the DNA molecule, whereby the guide RNA targets the DNA molecule encoding the gene product and the Cas9 protein cleaves the DNA molecule encoding the gene product, whereby expression of the gene product is altered; and, wherein the Cas9 protein and the guide RNA do not naturally occur together. The invention comprehends the guide RNA comprising a guide sequence linked to a direct repeat (DR) sequence. The invention further comprehends the Cas9 protein being codon optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In a preferred embodiment the eukaryotic cell is a mammalian cell and in a more preferred embodiment the mammalian cell is a human cell. In a further embodiment of the invention, the expression of the gene product is decreased.

In one aspect, the invention provides an engineered, non-naturally occurring Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system comprising a Cas9 protein and a guide RNA that targets a DNA molecule encoding a gene product in a cell, whereby the guide RNA targets the DNA molecule encoding the gene product and the Cas9 protein cleaves the DNA molecule encoding the gene product, whereby expression of the gene product is altered; and, wherein the Cas9 protein and the guide RNA do not naturally occur together; this including the present split Cas9. The invention comprehends the guide RNA comprising a guide sequence linked to a DR sequence. The invention further comprehends the Cas9 protein being codon optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In a preferred embodiment the eukaryotic cell is a mammalian cell and in a more preferred embodiment the mammalian cell is a human cell. In a further embodiment of the invention, the expression of the gene product is decreased.

In another aspect, the invention provides an engineered, non-naturally occurring vector system comprising one or more vectors comprising a first regulatory element operably linked to a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system guide RNA that targets a DNA molecule encoding a gene product and a second regulatory element operably linked to a Cas9 protein; this includes the present split Cas9. Components (a) and (b) may be located on same or different vectors of the system. The guide RNA targets the DNA molecule encoding the gene product in a cell and the Cas9 protein cleaves the DNA molecule encoding the gene product, whereby expression of the gene product is altered; and, wherein the Cas9 protein and the guide RNA do not naturally occur together. The invention comprehends the guide RNA comprising a guide sequence linked to a DR sequence. The invention further comprehends the Cas9 protein being codon optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In a preferred embodiment the eukaryotic cell is a mammalian cell and in a more preferred embodiment the mammalian cell is a human cell. In a further embodiment of the invention, the expression of the gene product is decreased.

In one aspect, the invention provides a vector system comprising one or more vectors. In some embodiments, the system comprises: (a) a first regulatory element operably linked to a DR sequence and one or more insertion sites for inserting one or more guide sequences downstream of the DR sequence, wherein when expressed, the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex to a target sequence in a eukaryotic cell, wherein the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex comprises Cas9 complexed with (1) the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence, and (2) the DR sequence; and (b) a second regulatory element operably linked to an enzyme-coding sequence encoding said Cas9 enzyme comprising a nuclear localization sequence; wherein components (a) and (b) are located on the same or different vectors of the system; this includes the present split Cas9. In some embodiments, component (a) further comprises two or more guide sequences operably linked to the first regulatory element, wherein when expressed, each of the two or more guide sequences direct sequence specific binding of a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex to a different target sequence in a eukaryotic cell.

In some embodiments, the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex comprises one or more nuclear localization sequences of sufficient strength to drive accumulation of said Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex in a detectable amount in the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that a nuclear localization sequence is not necessary for Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex activity in eukaryotes, but that including such sequences enhances activity of the system, especially as to targeting nucleic acid molecules in the nucleus.

In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme is Cas9 of a bacterial species selected from the group consisting of Francisella tularensis 1, Francisella tularensis subsp. novicida, Prevotella albensis, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MC2017 1, Butyrivibrio proteoclasticus, Peregrinibacteria bacterium GW2011_GWA2_33_10, Parcubacteria bacterium GW2011_GWC2_44_17, Smithella sp. SCADC, Acidaminococcus sp. BV3L6, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MA2020, Candidatus Methanoplasma termitum, Eubacterium eligens, Moraxella bovoculi 237, Leptospira inadai, Lachnospiraceae bacterium ND2006, Porphyromonas crevioricanis 3, Prevotella disiens, and Porphyromonas macacae, and may include mutated Cas9 derived from these organisms. The enzyme may be a Cas9 homolog or ortholog. In some embodiments, the Cas9 is codon-optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the Cas9 directs cleavage of one or two strands at the location of the target sequence. In a preferred embodiment, the strand break is a staggered cut with a 5′ overhang. In some embodiments, the first regulatory element is a polymerase III promoter. In some embodiments, the second regulatory element is a polymerase II promoter. In some embodiments, the direct repeat has a minimum length of 16 nts and a single stem loop. In further embodiments the direct repeat has a length longer than 16 nts, preferably more than 17 nts, and has more than one stem loop or optimized secondary structures.

In one aspect, the invention provides a eukaryotic host cell comprising (a) a first regulatory element operably linked to a direct repeat sequence and one or more insertion sites for inserting one or more guide sequences downstream of the DR sequence, wherein when expressed, the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex to a target sequence in a eukaryotic cell, wherein the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex comprises Cas9 complexed with (1) the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence, and (2) the DR sequence; and/or (b) a second regulatory element operably linked to an enzyme-coding sequence encoding said Cas9 enzyme comprising a nuclear localization sequence. In some embodiments, the host cell comprises components (a) and (b); this includes the present split Cas9. In some embodiments, component (a), component (b), or components (a) and (b) are stably integrated into a genome of the host eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, component (a) further comprises two or more guide sequences operably linked to the first regulatory element, wherein when expressed, each of the two or more guide sequences direct sequence specific binding of a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex to a different target sequence in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the Cas9 is codon-optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the Cas9 directs cleavage of one or two strands at the location of the target sequence. In a preferred embodiment, the strand break is a staggered cut with a 5′ overhang. In some embodiments, the Cas9 lacks DNA strand cleavage activity. In some embodiments, the first regulatory element is a polymerase III promoter. In some embodiments, the direct repeat has a minimum length of 16 nts and a single stem loop. In further embodiments the direct repeat has a length longer than 16 nts, preferably more than 17 nts, and has more than one stem loop or optimized secondary structures. In an aspect, the invention provides a non-human eukaryotic organism; preferably a multicellular eukaryotic organism, comprising a eukaryotic host cell according to any of the described embodiments. In other aspects, the invention provides a eukaryotic organism; preferably a multicellular eukaryotic organism, comprising a eukaryotic host cell according to any of the described embodiments. The organism in some embodiments of these aspects may be an animal; for example a mammal. Also, the organism may be an arthropod such as an insect. The organism also may be a plant. Further, the organism may be a fungus.

In one aspect, the invention provides a kit comprising one or more of the components described herein. In some embodiments, the kit comprises a vector system and instructions for using the kit. In some embodiments, the vector system comprises (a) a first regulatory element operably linked to a direct repeat sequence and one or more insertion sites for inserting one or more guide sequences downstream of the DR sequence, wherein when expressed, the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex to a target sequence in a eukaryotic cell, wherein the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex comprises Cas9 complexed with (1) the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence, and (2) the DR sequence; and/or (b) a second regulatory element operably linked to an enzyme-coding sequence encoding said Cas9 enzyme comprising a nuclear localization sequence and advantageously this includes the present split Cas9. In some embodiments, the kit comprises components (a) and (b) located on the same or different vectors of the system. In some embodiments, component (a) further comprises two or more guide sequences operably linked to the first regulatory element, wherein when expressed, each of the two or more guide sequences direct sequence specific binding of a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex to a different target sequence in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the Cas9 comprises one or more nuclear localization sequences of sufficient strength to drive accumulation of said Cas9 in a detectable amount in the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme is Cas9 of a bacterial species selected from the group consisting of Francisella tularensis 1, Francisella tularensis subsp. novicida, Prevotella albensis, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MC2017 1, Butyrivibrio proteoclasticus, Peregrinibacteria bacterium GW2011_GWA2_33_10, Parcubacteria bacterium GW2011_GWC2_44_17, Smithella sp. SCADC, Acidaminococcus sp. BV3L6, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MA2020, Candidatus Methanoplasma termitum, Eubacterium eligens, Moraxella bovoculi 237, Leptospira inadai, Lachnospiraceae bacterium ND2006, Porphyromonas crevioricanis 3, Prevotella disiens, and Porphyromonas macacae, and may include mutated Cas9 derived from these organisms. The enzyme may be a Cas9 homolog or ortholog. In some embodiments, the Cas9 is codon-optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the Cas9 directs cleavage of one or two strands at the location of the target sequence. In a preferred embodiment, the strand break is a staggered cut with a 5′ overhang. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme lacks DNA strand cleavage activity. In some embodiments, the direct repeat has a minimum length of 16 nts and a single stem loop. In further embodiments the direct repeat has a length longer than 16 nts, preferably more than 17 nts, and has more than one stem loop or optimized secondary structures.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method of modifying a target polynucleotide in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex to bind to the target polynucleotide to effect cleavage of said target polynucleotide thereby modifying the target polynucleotide, wherein the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex comprises Cas9 complexed with a guide sequence hybridized to a target sequence within said target polynucleotide, wherein said guide sequence is linked to a direct repeat sequence. In some embodiments, said cleavage comprises cleaving one or two strands at the location of the target sequence by said Cas9; this includes the present split Cas9. In some embodiments, said cleavage results in decreased transcription of a target gene. In some embodiments, the method further comprises repairing said cleaved target polynucleotide by homologous recombination with an exogenous template polynucleotide, wherein said repair results in a mutation comprising an insertion, deletion, or substitution of one or more nucleotides of said target polynucleotide. In some embodiments, said mutation results in one or more amino acid changes in a protein expressed from a gene comprising the target sequence. In some embodiments, the method further comprises delivering one or more vectors to said eukaryotic cell, wherein the one or more vectors drive expression of one or more of: the Cas9, and the guide sequence linked to the DR sequence. In some embodiments, said vectors are delivered to the eukaryotic cell in a subject. In some embodiments, said modifying takes place in said eukaryotic cell in a cell culture. In some embodiments, the method further comprises isolating said eukaryotic cell from a subject prior to said modifying. In some embodiments, the method further comprises returning said eukaryotic cell and/or cells derived therefrom to said subject.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method of modifying expression of a polynucleotide in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex to bind to the polynucleotide such that said binding results in increased or decreased expression of said polynucleotide; wherein the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex comprises Cas9 complexed with a guide sequence hybridized to a target sequence within said polynucleotide, wherein said guide sequence is linked to a direct repeat sequence; this includes the present split Cas9. In some embodiments, the method further comprises delivering one or more vectors to said eukaryotic cells, wherein the one or more vectors drive expression of one or more of: the Cas9, and the guide sequence linked to the DR sequence.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method of generating a model eukaryotic cell comprising a mutated disease gene. In some embodiments, a disease gene is any gene associated an increase in the risk of having or developing a disease. In some embodiments, the method comprises (a) introducing one or more vectors into a eukaryotic cell, wherein the one or more vectors drive expression of one or more of: Cas9, and a guide sequence linked to a direct repeat sequence; and (b) allowing a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex to bind to a target polynucleotide to effect cleavage of the target polynucleotide within said disease gene, wherein the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex comprises the Cas9 complexed with (1) the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence within the target polynucleotide, and (2) the DR sequence, thereby generating a model eukaryotic cell comprising a mutated disease gene; this includes the present split Cas9. In some embodiments, said cleavage comprises cleaving one or two strands at the location of the target sequence by said Cas9. In a preferred embodiment, the strand break is a staggered cut with a 5′ overhang. In some embodiments, said cleavage results in decreased transcription of a target gene. In some embodiments, the method further comprises repairing said cleaved target polynucleotide by homologous recombination with an exogenous template polynucleotide, wherein said repair results in a mutation comprising an insertion, deletion, or substitution of one or more nucleotides of said target polynucleotide. In some embodiments, said mutation results in one or more amino acid changes in a protein expression from a gene comprising the target sequence.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method for developing a biologically active agent that modulates a cell signaling event associated with a disease gene. In some embodiments, a disease gene is any gene associated an increase in the risk of having or developing a disease. In some embodiments, the method comprises (a) contacting a test compound with a model cell of any one of the described embodiments; and (b) detecting a change in a readout that is indicative of a reduction or an augmentation of a cell signaling event associated with said mutation in said disease gene, thereby developing said biologically active agent that modulates said cell signaling event associated with said disease gene.

In one aspect, the invention provides a recombinant polynucleotide comprising a guide sequence downstream of a direct repeat sequence, wherein the guide sequence when expressed directs sequence-specific binding of a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex to a corresponding target sequence present in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the target sequence is a viral sequence present in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the target sequence is a proto-oncogene or an oncogene.

In one aspect the invention provides for a method of selecting one or more cell(s) by introducing one or more mutations in a gene in the one or more cell (s), the method comprising: introducing one or more vectors into the cell (s), wherein the one or more vectors drive expression of one or more of: Cas9, a guide sequence linked to a direct repeat sequence, and an editing template; wherein the editing template comprises the one or more mutations that abolish Cas9 cleavage; allowing homologous recombination of the editing template with the target polynucleotide in the cell(s) to be selected; allowing a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex to bind to a target polynucleotide to effect cleavage of the target polynucleotide within said gene, wherein the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex comprises the Cas9 complexed with (1) the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence within the target polynucleotide, and (2) the direct repeat sequence, wherein binding of the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex to the target polynucleotide induces cell death, thereby allowing one or more cell(s) in which one or more mutations have been introduced to be selected; this includes the present split Cas9. In another preferred embodiment of the invention the cell to be selected may be a eukaryotic cell. Aspects of the invention allow for selection of specific cells without requiring a selection marker or a two-step process that may include a counter-selection system.

Herein there is the phrase “this includes the present split Cas9” or similar text; and, this is to indicate that Cas9 in embodiments herein can be a split Cas9 as herein discussed.

In an aspect the invention involves a non-naturally occurring or engineered inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, comprising a first Cas9 fusion construct attached to a first half of an inducible heterodimer and a second Cas9 fusion construct attached to a second half of the inducible heterodimer, wherein the first Cas9 fusion construct is operably linked to one or more nuclear localization signals, wherein the second Cas9 fusion construct is operably linked to a nuclear export signal, wherein contact with an inducer energy source brings the first and second halves of the inducible heterodimer together, wherein bringing the first and second halves of the inducible heterodimer together allows the first and second Cas9 fusion constructs to constitute a functional Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, wherein the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system comprises a guide RNA (gRNA) comprising a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell, and wherein the functional Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system edits the genomic locus to alter gene expression. In an embodiment of the invention the first half of the inducible heterodimer is FKBP12 and the second half of the inducible heterodimer is FRB. In another embodiment of the invention the inducer energy source is rapamycin.

An inducer energy source may be considered to be simply an inducer or a dimerizing agent. The term ‘inducer energy source’ is used herein throughout for consistency. The inducer energy source (or inducer) acts to reconstitute the Cas9. In some embodiments, the inducer energy source brings the two parts of the Cas9 together through the action of the two halves of the inducible dimer. The two halves of the inducible dimer therefore are brought tougher in the presence of the inducer energy source. The two halves of the dimer will not form into the dimer (dimerize) without the inducer energy source.

Thus, the two halves of the inducible dimer cooperate with the inducer energy source to dimerize the dimer. This in turn reconstitutes the Cas9 by bringing the first and second parts of the Cas9 together.

The CRISPR enzyme fusion constructs each comprise one part of the split Cas9. These are fused, preferably via a linker such as a GlySer linker described herein, to one of the two halves of the dimer. The two halves of the dimer may be substantially the same two monomers that together that form the homodimer, or they may be different monomers that together form the heterodimer. As such, the two monomers can be thought of as one half of the full dimer.

The Cas9 is split in the sense that the two parts of the Cas9 enzyme substantially comprise a functioning Cas9. That Cas9 may function as a genome editing enzyme (when forming a complex with the target DNA and the guide), such as a nickase or a nuclease (cleaving both strands of the DNA), or it may be a dead-Cas9 which is essentially a DNA-binding protein with very little or no catalytic activity, due to typically mutation(s) in its catalytic domains.

The two parts of the split Cas9 can be thought of as the N′ terminal part and the C′ terminal part of the split Cas9. The fusion is typically at the split point of the Cas9. In other words, the C′ terminal of the N′ terminal part of the split Cas9 is fused to one of the dimer halves, whilst the N′ terminal of the C′ terminal part is fused to the other dimer half.

The Cas9 does not have to be split in the sense that the break is newly created. The split point is typically designed in silico and cloned into the constructs. Together, the two parts of the split Cas9, the N′ terminal and C′ terminal parts, form a full Cas9, comprising preferably at least 70% or more of the wildtype amino acids (or nucleotides encoding them), preferably at least 80% or more, preferably at least 90% or more, preferably at least 95% or more, and most preferably at least 99% or more of the wildtype amino acids (or nucleotides encoding them). Some trimming may be possible, and mutants are envisaged. Non-functional domains may be removed entirely. What is important is that the two parts may be brought together and that the desired Cas9 function is restored or reconstituted.

The dimer may be a homodimer or a heterodimer.

One or more, preferably two, NLSs may be used in operable linkage to the first Cas9 construct. One or more, preferably two, NESs may be used in operable linkage to the first Cas9 construct. The NLSs and/or the NESs preferably flank the split Cas9-dimer (i.e., half dimer) fusion, i.e., one NLS may be positioned at the N′ terminal of the first Cas9 construct and one NLS may be at the C′ terminal of the first Cas9 construct. Similarly, one NES may be positioned at the N′ terminal of the second Cas9 construct and one NES may be at the C′ terminal of the second Cas9 construct. Where reference is made to N′ or C′ terminals, it will be appreciated that these correspond to 5′ ad 3′ ends in the corresponding nucleotide sequence.

A preferred arrangement is that the first Cas9 construct is arranged 5′-NLS-(N′ terminal Cas9 part)-linker-(first half of the dimer)-NLS-3′. A preferred arrangement is that the second Cas9 construct is arranged 5′-NES-(second half of the dimer)-linker-(C′ terminal Cas9 part)-NES-3′. A suitable promoter is preferably upstream of each of these constructs. The two constructs may be delivered separately or together.

In some embodiments, one or all of the NES(s) in operable linkage to the second Cas9 construct may be swapped out for an NLS. However, this may be typically not preferred and, in other embodiments, the localization signal in operable linkage to the second Cas9 construct is one or more NES(s).

It will also be appreciated that the NES may be operably linked to the N′ terminal fragment of the split Cas9 and that the NLS may be operably linked to the C′ terminal fragment of the split Cas9. However, the arrangement where the NLS is operably linked to the N′ terminal fragment of the split Cas9 and that the NES is operably linked to the C′ terminal fragment of the split Cas9 may be preferred.

The NES functions to localize the second Cas9 fusion construct outside of the nucleus, at least until the inducer energy source is provided (e.g., at least until an energy source is provided to the inducer to perform its function). The presence of the inducer stimulates dimerization of the two Cas9 fusions within the cytoplasm and makes it thermodynamically worthwhile for the dimerized, first and second, Cas9 fusions to localize to the nucleus. Without being bound by theory, Applicants believe that the NES sequesters the second Cas9 fusion to the cytoplasm (i.e., outside of the nucleus). The NLS on the first Cas9 fusion localizes it to the nucleus. In both cases, Applicants use the NES or NLS to shift an equilibrium (the equilibrium of nuclear transport) to a desired direction. The dimerization typically occurs outside of the nucleus (a very small fraction might happen in the nucleus) and the NLSs on the dimerized complex shift the equilibrium of nuclear transport to nuclear localization, so the dimerized and hence reconstituted Cas9 enters the nucleus.

Beneficially, Applicants are able to reconstitute function in the split Cas9. Transient transfection is used to prove the concept and dimerization occurs in the background in the presence of the inducer energy source. No activity is seen with separate fragments of the Cas9. Stable expression through lentiviral delivery is then used to develop this and show that a split Cas9 approach can be used.

This present split Cas9 approach is beneficial as it allows the Cas9 activity to be inducible, thus allowing for temporal control. Furthermore, different localization sequences may be used (i.e., the NES and NLS as preferred) to reduce background activity from auto-assembled complexes. Tissue specific promoters, for example one for each of the first and second Cas9 fusion constructs, may also be used for tissue-specific targeting, thus providing spatial control. Two different tissue specific promoters may be used to exert a finer degree of control if required. The same approach may be used in respect of stage-specific promoters or there may a mixture of stage and tissue specific promoters, where one of the first and second Cas9 fusion constructs is under the control of (i.e. operably linked to or comprises) a tissue-specific promoter, whilst the other of the first and second Cas9 fusion constructs is under the control of (i.e. operably linked to or comprises) a stage-specific promoter.

The inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system comprises one or more nuclear localization sequences (NLSs), as described herein, for example as operably linked to the first Cas9 fusion construct. These nuclear localization sequences are ideally of sufficient strength to drive accumulation of said first Cas9 fusion construct in a detectable amount in the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that a nuclear localization sequence is not necessary for Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex activity in eukaryotes, but that including such sequences enhances activity of the system, especially as to targeting nucleic acid molecules in the nucleus, and assists with the operation of the present 2-part system.

Equally, the second Cas9 fusion construct is operably linked to a nuclear export sequence (NES). Indeed, it may be linked to one or more nuclear export sequences. In other words, the number of export sequences used with the second Cas9 fusion construct is preferably 1 or 2 or 3. Typically 2 is preferred, but 1 is enough and so is preferred in some embodiments. Suitable examples of NLS and NES are known in the art. For example, a preferred nuclear export signal (NES) is human protein tyrosin kinase 2. Preferred signals will be species specific.

Where the FRB and FKBP system are used, the FKBP is preferably flanked by nuclear localization sequences (NLSs). Where the FRB and FKBP system are used, the preferred arrangement is N′ terminal Cas9-FRB-NES:C′ terminal Cas9-FKBP-NLS. Thus, the first Cas9 fusion construct would comprise the C′ terminal Cas9 part and the second Cas9 fusion construct would comprise the N′ terminal Cas9 part.

Another beneficial aspect to the present invention is that it may be turned on quickly, i.e. that is has a rapid response. It is believed, without being bound by theory, that Cas9 activity can be induced through dimerization of existing (already present) fusion constructs (through contact with the inducer energy source) more rapidly than through the expression (especially translation) of new fusion constructs. As such, the first and second Cas9 fusion constructs may be expressed in the target cell ahead of time, i.e. before Cas9 activity is required. Cas9 activity can then be temporally controlled and then quickly constituted through addition of the inducer energy source, which ideally acts more quickly (to dimerize the heterodimer and thereby provide Cas9 activity) than through expression (including induction of transcription) of Cas9 delivered by a vector, for example.

The terms Cas9 or Cas9 enzyme and CRISPR enzyme are used interchangeably herein unless otherwise apparent.

Applicants demonstrate that Cas9 can be split into two components, which reconstitute a functional nuclease when brought back together. Employing rapamycin sensitive dimerization domains, Applicants generate a chemically inducible Cas9 for temporal control of Cas9-mediated genome editing and transcription modulation. Put another way, Applicants demonstrate that Cas9 can be rendered chemically inducible by being split into two fragments and that rapamycin-sensitive dimerization domains may be used for controlled reassembly of the Cas9. Applicants show that the re-assembled Cas9 may be used to mediate genome editing (through nuclease/nickase activity) as well as transcription modulation (as a DNA-binding domain, the so-called “dead Cas9”).

As such, the use of rapamycin-sensitive dimerization domains is preferred. Reassembly of the Cas9 is preferred. Reassembly can be determined by restoration of binding activity. Where the Cas9 is a nickase or induces a double-strand break, suitable comparison percentages compared to a wildtype are described herein.

Rapamycin treatments can last 12 days. The dose can be 200 nM. This temporal and/or molar dosage is an example of an appropriate dose for Human embryonic kidney 293FT (HEK293FT) cell lines and this may also be used in other cell lines. This figure can be extrapolated out for therapeutic use in vivo into, for example, mg/kg. However, it is also envisaged that the standard dosage for administering rapamycin to a subject is used here as well. By the “standard dosage”, it is meant the dosage under rapamycin's normal therapeutic use or primary indication (i.e. the dose used when rapamycin is administered for use to prevent organ rejection).

It is noteworthy that the preferred arrangement of Cas9-FRB/FKBP pieces are separate and inactive until rapamycin-induced dimerization of FRB and FKBP results in reassembly of a functional full-length Cas9 nuclease. Thus, it is preferred that first Cas9 fusion construct attached to a first half of an inducible heterodimer is delivered separately and/or is localized separately from the second Cas9 fusion construct attached to a first half of an inducible heterodimer.

To sequester the Cas9(N)-FRB fragment in the cytoplasm, where it is less likely to dimerize with the nuclear-localized Cas9(C)-FKBP fragment, it is preferable to use on Cas9(N)-FRB a single nuclear export sequence (NES) from the human protein tyrosin kinase 2 (Cas9(N)-FRB-NES). In the presence of rapamycin, Cas9(N)-FRB-NES dimerizes with Cas9(C)-FKBP-2×NLS to reconstitute a complete Cas9 protein, which shifts the balance of nuclear trafficking toward nuclear import and allows DNA targeting.

High dosage of Cas9 can exacerbate indel frequencies at off-target (OT) sequences which exhibit few mismatches to the guide strand. Such sequences are especially susceptible, if mismatches are non-consecutive and/or outside of the seed region of the guide. Accordingly, temporal control of Cas9 activity could be used to reduce dosage in long-term expression experiments and therefore result in reduced off-target indels compared to constitutively active Cas9.

Viral delivery is preferred. In particular, a lentiviral or AAV delivery vector is envisaged. Applicants generate a split-Cas9 lentivirus construct, similar to the lentiCRISPR plasmid. The split pieces should be small enough to fit the ˜4.7 kb size limitation of AAV.

Applicants demonstrate that stable, low copy expression of split Cas9 can be used to induce substantial indels at a targeted locus without significant mutation at off-target sites. Applicants clone Cas9 fragments (2 parts based on split 5, described herein).

A dead Cas9 may also be used, comprising a VP64 transactivation domain, for example added to Cas9(C)-FKBP-2×NLS (dead-Cas9(C)-FKBP-2×NLS-VP64). These fragments reconstitute a catalytically inactive Cas9-VP64 fusion (dead-Cas9-VP64). Transcriptional activation is induced by VP64 in the presence of rapamycin to induce the dimerization of the Cas9(C)-FKBP fusion and the Cas9(N)-FRB fusion. In other words, Applicants test the inducibility of split dead-Cas9-VP64 and show that transcriptional activation is induced by split dead-Cas9-VP64 in the presence of rapamycin. As such, the present inducible Cas9 may be associated with one or more functional domain, such as a transcriptional activator or repressor or a nuclease (such as Fok1). A functional domain may be bound to or fused with one part of the split Cas9.

A preferred arrangement is that the first Cas9 construct is arranged 5′-First Localization Signal-(N′ terminal Cas9 part)-linker-(first half of the dimer)-First Localization Signal-3′ and the second Cas9 construct is arranged 5′-Second Localization Signal-(second half of the dimer)-linker-(C′ terminal Cas9 part)-Second Localization Signal-Functional Domain-3′. Here, a functional domain is placed at the 3′ end of the second Cas9 construct. Alternatively, a functional domain may be placed at the 5′ end of the first Cas9 construct. One or more functional domains may be used at the 3′ end or the 5′ end or at both ends. A suitable promoter is preferably upstream of each of these constructs. The two constructs may be delivered separately or together. The Localization Signals may be an NLS or an NES, so long as they are not inter-mixed on each construct.

In an aspect the invention provides an inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system wherein the Cas9 has a diminished nuclease activity of at least 97%, or 100% as compared with the Cas9 enzyme not having the at least one mutation.

Accordingly, it is also preferred that the Cas9 is a dead-Cas9. Ideally, the split should always be so that the catalytic domain(s) are unaffected. For the dead-Cas9 the intention is that DNA binding occurs, but not cleavage or nickase activity is shown.

In an aspect the invention provides an inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system as herein discussed wherein one or more functional domains is associated with the Cas9. This functional domain may be associated with (i.e. bound to or fused with) one part of the split Cas9 or both. There may be one associated with each of the two parts of the split Cas9. These may therefore be typically provided as part of the first and/or second Cas9 fusion constructs, as fusions within that construct. The functional domains are typically fused via a linker, such as GlySer linker, as discussed herein. The one or more functional domains may be transcriptional activation domain or a repressor domain. Although they may be different domains it is preferred that all the functional domains are either activator or repressor and that a mixture of the two is not used.

The transcriptional activation domain may comprise VP64, p65, MyoD1, HSF1, RTA or SET7/9.

In an aspect, the invention provides an inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system as herein discussed wherein the one or more functional domains associated with the Cas9 is a transcriptional repressor domain.

In an aspect, the invention provides an inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system as herein discussed wherein the transcriptional repressor domain is a KRAB domain.

In an aspect, the invention provides an inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system as herein discussed wherein the transcriptional repressor domain is a NuE domain, NcoR domain, SID domain or a SID4× domain.

In an aspect the invention provides an inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system as herein discussed wherein the one or more functional domains associated with the adaptor protein have one or more activities comprising methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, RNA cleavage activity, DNA cleavage activity, DNA integration activity or nucleic acid binding activity.

Histone modifying domains are also preferred in some embodiments. Exemplary histone modifying domains are discussed below. Transposase domains, HR (Homologous Recombination) machinery domains, recombinase domains, and/or integrase domains are also preferred as the present functional domains. In some embodiments, DNA integration activity includes HR machinery domains, integrase domains, recombinase domains and/or transposase domains.

In an aspect the invention provides an inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system as herein discussed wherein the DNA cleavage activity is due to a nuclease.

In an aspect the invention provides an inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system as herein discussed wherein the nuclease comprises a Fok1 nuclease.

The use of such functional domains, which are preferred with the present split Cas9 system, is also discussed in detail in Konermann et al. (“Genome-scale transcriptional activation with an engineered CRISPR-Cas9 complex” Nature published 11 Dec. 2014).

The present system may be used with any guide.

Modified guides may be used in certain embodiments. Particularly preferred are guides embodying the teachings of Konermann Nature 11 Dec. 2014 paper mentioned above. These guides are modified so that protein-binding RNA portions (such as aptamers) are added. Such portion(s) may replace a portion of the guide. Corresponding RNA-binding protein domains can be used to then recognise the RNA and recruit functional domains, such as those described herein, to the guide. This is primarily for use with dead-Cas9 leading to transcriptional activation or repression or DNA cleavage through nucleases such as Fok1. The use of such guides in combination with dead-Cas9 is powerful, and it is especially powerful if the Cas9 itself is also associated with its own functional domain, as discussed herein. When a dead-Cas9 (with or without its own associated functional domain) is induced to reconstitute in accordance with the present invention, i.e. is a split Cas9, then the tool is especially useful.

A guide RNA (gRNA), also preferred for use in the present invention, can comprise a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell, wherein the gRNA is modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins, and wherein the adaptor protein is associated with one or more functional domains. The Cas9 may comprise at least one mutation, such that the Cas9 enzyme has no more than 5% of the nuclease activity of the Cas9 enzyme not having the at least one mutation; and/or at least one or more nuclear localization sequences. Also provided is a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition comprising: one or more guide RNA (gRNA) comprising a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell, a Cas9 enzyme comprising at least one or more nuclear localization sequences, wherein the Cas9 enzyme comprises at least one mutation, such that the Cas9 enzyme has no more than 5% of the nuclease activity of the Cas9 enzyme not having the at least one mutation, wherein the at least one gRNA is modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins, and wherein the adaptor protein is associated with one or more functional domains.

The gRNA that is preferably modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins. The insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins is preferably an aptamer sequence or two or more aptamer sequences specific to the same or different adaptor protein(s). The adaptor protein preferably comprises MS2, PP7, Qβ, F2, GA, fr, JP501, M12, R17, BZ13, JP34, JP500, KU1, M11, MX1, TW18, VK, SP, FI, ID2, NL95, TW19, AP205, ϕCb5, ϕCb8r, ϕCb12r, ϕCb23r, 7s, PRR1. Cell lines stably expressing inter alia split dead-Cas9 can be useful.

Applicants demonstrate that Cas9 can be split into two distinct fragments, which reconstitute a functional full-length Cas9 nuclease when brought back together using chemical induction. The split Cas9 architecture will be useful for a variety of applications. For example, split Cas9 may enable genetic strategies for restricting Cas9 activity to intersectional cell populations by putting each fragment under a different tissue specific promoter. Additionally, different chemically inducible dimerization domains such as APA and gibberellin may also be employed.

The inducer energy source is preferably chemical induction.

The split position or location is the point at which the first part of the Cas9 enzyme is separated from the second part. In some embodiments, the first part will comprise or encode amino acids 1 to X, whilst the second part will comprise or encode amino acids X+1 to the end. In this example, the numbering is contiguous, but this may not always be necessary as amino acids (or the nucleotides encoding them) could be trimmed from the end of either of the split ends, provided that sufficient DNA binding activity and, if required, DNA nickase or cleavage activity is retained, for example at least 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or 95% activity compared to wildtype Cas9.

The exemplary numbering provided herein may be in reference to the wildtype protein, preferably the wildtype FnCas9. However, it is envisaged that mutants of the wildtype Cas9 such as of FnCas9 protein can be used. The numbering may also not follow exactly the FnCas9 numbering as, for instance, some N′ or C′ terminal truncations or deletions may be used, but this can be addressed using standard sequence alignment tools. Orthologs are also preferred as a sequence alignment tool.

Thus, the split position may be selected using ordinary skill in the art, for instance based on crystal data and/or computational structure predictions.

For example, computational analysis of the primary structure of Cas9 nucleases reveals three distinct regions (FIG. 1). First a C-terminal RuvC like domain, which is the only functional characterized domain. Second a N-terminal alpha-helical region and thirst a mixed alpha and beta region, located between the RuvC like domain and the alpha-helical region. Several small stretches of unstructured regions are predicted within the Cas9 primary structure. Unstructured regions, which are exposed to the solvent and not conserved within different Cas9 orthologs, may represent preferred sides for splits (FIG. 2 and FIG. 3).

The following table presents non-limiting potential split regions within As and LbCas9. A split site within such a region may be opportune.

Split region AsCas9 LbCas9 1 575-588 566-571 2 631-645 754-757 3 653-664 — 4 818-844 —

For Fn, As and Lb Cas9 mutants, it should be readily apparent what the corresponding position for a potential split site is, for example, based on a sequence alignment. For non-Fn, As and Lb enzymes one can use the crystal structure of an ortholog if a relatively high degree of homology exists between the ortholog and the intended Cas9, or one can use computational prediction.

Ideally, the split position should be located within a region or loop. Preferably, the split position occurs where an interruption of the amino acid sequence does not result in the partial or full destruction of a structural feature (e.g. alpha-helixes or beta-sheets). Unstructured regions (regions that do not show up in the crystal structure because these regions are not structured enough to be “frozen” in a crystal) are often preferred options. Applicants can for example make splits in unstructured regions that are exposed on the surface of Cas9.

Applicants can follow the following procedure which is provided as a preferred example and as guidance. Since unstructured regions don't show up in the crystal structure, Applicants cross-reference the surrounding amino acid sequence of the crystal with the primary amino acid sequence of the Cas9. Each unstructured region can be made of for example about 3 to 10 amino acids, which does not show up in the crystal. Applicants therefore make the split in between these amino acids. To include more potential split sides Applicants include splits located in loops at the outside of Cas9 using the same criteria as with unstructured regions.

In some embodiments, the split position is in an outside loop of the Cas9. In other preferred embodiments, the split position is in an unstructured region of the Cas9. An unstructured region is typically a highly flexible outside loop whose structure cannot be readily determined from a crystal pattern.

Once the split position has been identified, suitable constructs can be designed.

Typically, an NES is positioned at the N′ terminal end of the first part of the split amino acid (or the 5′ end of nucleotide encoding it). In that case, an NLS is positioned at the C′ terminal end of the second part of the split amino acid (or the 3′ end of the nucleotide encoding it). In this way, the first Cas9 fusion construct may be operably linked to one or more nuclear export signals and the second Cas9 fusion construct may be operably linked to a nuclear localization signal.

Of course, the reverse arrangement may be provided, where an NLS is positioned at the N′ terminal end of the first part of the split amino acid (or the 5′ end of nucleotide encoding it). In that case, an NES is positioned at the C′ terminal end of the second part of the split amino acid (or the 3′ end of the nucleotide encoding it). Thus, the first Cas9 fusion construct may be operably linked to one or more nuclear localization signals and the second Cas9 fusion construct may be operably linked to a nuclear export signal.

Splits which keep the two parts (either side of the split) roughly the same length may be advantageous for packing purposes. For example, it is thought to be easier to maintain stoichiometry between both pieces when the transcripts are about the same size.

In certain examples, the N- and C-term pieces of human codon-optimized Cas9 such as FnCas9 are fused to FRB and FKBP dimerization domains, respectively. This arrangement may be preferred. They may be switched over (i.e. N′ term to FKBP and C′ term to FRB).

Linkers such as (GGGGS)₃ (SEQ ID NO: 2) are preferably used herein to separate the Cas9 fragment from the dimerization domain. (GGGGS)₃ (SEQ ID NO: 2) is preferable because it is a relatively long linker (15 amino acids). The glycine residues are the most flexible and the serine residues enhance the chance that the linker is on the outside of the protein. (GGGGS)₆ (SEQ ID NO: 3) (GGGGS)₉ (SEQ ID NO: 4) or (GGGGS)₁₂ (SEQ ID NO: 5) may preferably be used as alternatives. Other preferred alternatives are (GGGGS)₁ (SEQ ID NO: 42), (GGGGS)₂ (SEQ ID NO: 43), (GGGGS)₄ (SEQ ID NO: 44), (GGGGS)₅ (SEQ ID NO: 45), (GGGGS)₇ (SEQ ID NO: 46), (GGGGS)₈ (SEQ ID NO: 47), (GGGGS)₁₀ (SEQ ID NO: 48), or (GGGGS)₁₁(SEQ ID NO: 49).

For example, (GGGGS)₃ (SEQ ID NO: 2) may be included between the N′ term Cas9 fragment and FRB. For example, (GGGGS)₃ (SEQ ID NO: 2) may be included between FKB and the C′ term Cas9 fragment.

Alternative linkers are available, but highly flexible linkers are thought to work best to allow for maximum opportunity for the 2 parts of the Cas9 to come together and thus reconstitute Cas9 activity. One alternative is that the NLS of nucleoplasmin can be used as a linker.

A linker can also be used between the Cas9 and any functional domain. Again, a (GGGGS)₃ (SEQ ID NO: 2) linker may be used here (or the 6 (SEQ ID NO: 3), 9 (SEQ ID NO: 4), or 12 (SEQ ID NO: 5) repeat versions therefore) or the NLS of nucleoplasmin can be used as a linker between Cas9 and the functional domain.

Alternatives to the FRB/FKBP system are envisaged. For example the ABA and gibberellin system.

Accordingly, preferred examples of the FKBP family are any one of the following inducible systems. FKBP which dimerizes with CalcineurinA (CNA), in the presence of FK506; FKBP which dimerizes with CyP-Fas, in the presence of FKCsA; FKBP which dimerizes with FRB, in the presence of Rapamycin; GyrB which dimerizes with GryB, in the presence of Coumermycin; GAI which dimerizes with GID1, in the presence of Gibberellin; or Snap-tag which dimerizes with HaloTag, in the presence of HaXS.

Alternatives within the FKBP family itself are also preferred. For example, FKBP, which homo-dimerizes (i.e. one FKBP dimerizes with another FKBP) in the presence of FK1012. Thus, also provided is a non-naturally occurring or engineered inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, comprising:

-   -   first Cas9 fusion construct attached to a first half of an         inducible homodimer and     -   second Cas9 fusion construct attached to a second half of the         inducible homodimer,     -   wherein the first Cas9 fusion construct is operably linked to         one or more nuclear localization signals,     -   wherein the second Cas9 fusion construct is operably linked to a         (optionally one or more) nuclear export signal(s),     -   wherein contact with an inducer energy source brings the first         and second halves of the inducible homodimer together,     -   wherein bringing the first and second halves of the inducible         homodimer together allows the first and second Cas9 fusion         constructs to constitute a functional Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system,     -   wherein the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system comprises a guide RNA (gRNA)         comprising a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target         sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell, and     -   wherein the functional Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system binds to the         target sequence and, optionally, edits the genomic locus to         alter gene expression.

In one embodiment, the homodimer is preferably FKBP and the inducer energy source is preferably FK1012. In another embodiment, the homodimer is preferably GryB and the inducer energy source is preferably Coumermycin. In another embodiment, the homodimer is preferably ABA and the inducer energy source is preferably Gibberellin.

In other embodiments, the dimer is a heterodimer. Preferred examples of heterodimers are any one of the following inducible systems: FKBP which dimerizes with CalcineurinA (CNA), in the presence of FK506; FKBP which dimerizes with CyP-Fas, in the presence of FKCsA; FKBP which dimerizes with FRB, in the presence of Rapamycin, in the presence of Coumermycin; GAI which dimerizes with GID1, in the presence of Gibberellin; or Snap-tag which dimerizes with HaloTag, in the presence of HaXS.

Applicants used FKBP/FRB because it is well characterized and both domains are sufficiently small (<100 amino acids) to assist with packaging. Furthermore, rapamycin has been used for a long time and side effects are well understood. Large dimerization domains (>300 aa) should work too but may require longer linkers to make enable Cas9 reconstitution.

Paulmurugan and Gambhir (Cancer Res, Aug. 15, 2005 65; 7413) discusses the background to the FRB/FKBP/Rapamycin system. Another useful paper is the article by Crabtree et al. (Chemistry & Biology 13, 99-107, January 2006).

In an example, a single vector, an expression cassette (plasmid) is constructed. gRNA is under the control of a U6 promoter. Two different Cas9 splits are used. The split Cas9 construct is based on a first Cas9 fusion construct, flanked by NLSs, with FKBP fused to C terminal part of the split Cas9 via a GlySer linker; and a second Cas9 fusion construct, flanked by NESs, with FRB fused with the N terminal part of the split Cas9 via a GlySer linker. To separate the first and second Cas9 fusion constructs, P2A is used splitting on transcription. The Split Cas9 shows indel formation similar to wildtype in the presence of rapamycin, but markedly lower indel formation than the wildtype in the absence of rapamycin.

Accordingly, a single vector is provided. The vector comprises:

-   -   first Cas9 fusion construct attached to a first half of an         inducible dimer and     -   second Cas9 fusion construct attached to a second half of the         inducible dimer,     -   wherein the first Cas9 fusion construct is operably linked to         one or more nuclear localization signals,     -   wherein the second Cas9 fusion construct is operably linked to         one or more nuclear export signals,     -   wherein contact with an inducer energy source brings the first         and second halves of the inducible heterodimer together,     -   wherein bringing the first and second halves of the inducible         heterodimer together allows the first and second Cas9 fusion         constructs to constitute a functional Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system,     -   wherein the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system comprises a guide RNA (gRNA)         comprising a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target         sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell, and     -   wherein the functional Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system binds to the         target sequence and, optionally, edits the genomic locus to         alter gene expression. These elements are preferably provided on         a single construct, for example an expression cassette.

The first Cas9 fusion construct is preferably flanked by at least one nuclear localization signal at each end. The second Cas9 fusion construct is preferably flanked by at least one nuclear export signal at each end.

Also provided is a method of treating a subject in need thereof, comprising inducing gene editing by transforming the subject with the polynucleotide encoding the system or any of the present vectors and administering an inducer energy source to the subject. A suitable repair template may also be provided, for example delivered by a vector comprising said repair template.

Also provided is a method of treating a subject in need thereof, comprising inducing transcriptional activation or repression by transforming the subject with the polynucleotide encoding the present system or any of the present vectors, wherein said polynucleotide or vector encodes or comprises the catalytically inactive Cas9 and one or more associated functional domains; the method further comprising administering an inducer energy source to the subject.

Compositions comprising the present system for use in said method of treatment are also provided. Use of the present system in the manufacture of a medicament for such methods of treatment are also provided.

Examples of conditions treatable by the present system are described herein or in documents cited herein.

The single vector can comprise a transcript-splitting agent, for example P2A. P2A splits the transcript in two, to separate the first and second Cas9 fusion constructs. The splitting is due to “ribosomal skipping”. In essence, the ribosome skips an amino acid during translation, which breaks the protein chain and results in two separate polypeptides/proteins. The single vector is also useful for applications where low background activity is not of concern but a high inducible activity is desired.

One example would be the generation of clonal embryonic stem cell lines. The normal procedure is transient transfection with plasmids encoding wt Cas9 or Cas9 nickases. These plasmids produce Cas9 molecules, which stay active for several days and have a higher chance of off target activity. Using the single expression vector for split Cas9 allows restricting “high” Cas9 activity to a shorter time window (e.g. one dose of an inducer, such as rapamycin). Without continual (daily) inducer (e.g. rapamycin) treatments the activity of single expression split Cas9 vectors is low and presents a reduced chance of causing unwanted off target effects.

A peak of induced Cas9 activity is beneficial in some embodiments and may most easily be brought about using a single delivery vector, but it is also possible through a dual vector system (each vector delivering one half of the split Cas9). The peak may be high activity and for a short timescale, typically the lifetime of the inducer.

Accordingly, provided is a method for generation of clonal embryonic stem cell lines, comprising transfecting one or more embryonic stem cells with a polynucleotide encoding the present system or one of the present vectors to express the present split Cas9 and administering or contacting the one or more stem cells with the present inducer energy source to induce reconstitution of the Cas9. A repair template may be provided.

As with all methods described herein, it will be appreciated that suitable gRNA or guides will be required.

Where functional domains and the like are “associated” with one or other part of the enzyme, these are typically fusions. The term “associated with” is used here in respect of how one molecule ‘associates’ with respect to another, for example between parts of the Cas9 and a functional domain. In the case of such protein-protein interactions, this association may be viewed in terms of recognition in the way an antibody recognises an epitope. Alternatively, one protein may be associated with another protein via a fusion of the two, for instance one subunit being fused to another subunit. Fusion typically occurs by addition of the amino acid sequence of one to that of the other, for instance via splicing together of the nucleotide sequences that encode each protein or subunit. Alternatively, this may essentially be viewed as binding between two molecules or direct linkage, such as a fusion protein. In any event, the fusion protein may include a linker between the two subunits of interest (i.e. between the enzyme and the functional domain or between the adaptor protein and the functional domain). Thus, in some embodiments, the part of the Cas9 is associated with a functional domain by binding thereto. In other embodiments, the Cas9 is associated with a functional domain because the two are fused together, optionally via an intermediate linker. Examples of linkers include the GlySer linkers discussed herein.

Other examples of inducers include light and hormones. For light, the inducible dimers may be heterodimers and include first light-inducible half of a dimer and a second (and complimentary) light-inducible half of a dimer. A preferred example of first and second light-inducible dimer halves is the CIB1 and CRY2 system. The CIB1 domain is a heterodimeric binding partner of the light-sensitive Cryptochrome 2 (CRY2).

In another example, the blue light-responsive Magnet dimerization system (pMag and nMag) may be fused to the two parts of a split Cas9 protein. In response to light stimulation, pMag and nMag dimerize and Cas9 reassembles. For example, such system is described in connection with Cas9 in Nihongaki et al. (Nat. Biotechnol. 33, 755-790, 2015).

The invention comprehends that the inducer energy source may be heat, ultrasound, electromagnetic energy or chemical. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the inducer energy source may be an antibiotic, a small molecule, a hormone, a hormone derivative, a steroid or a steroid derivative. In a more preferred embodiment, the inducer energy source maybe abscisic acid (ABA), doxycycline (DOX), cumate, rapamycin, 4-hydroxytamoxifen (4OHT), estrogen or ecdysone. The invention provides that the at least one switch may be selected from the group consisting of antibiotic based inducible systems, electromagnetic energy based inducible systems, small molecule based inducible systems, nuclear receptor based inducible systems and hormone based inducible systems. In a more preferred embodiment the at least one switch may be selected from the group consisting of tetracycline (Tet)/DOX inducible systems, light inducible systems, ABA inducible systems, cumate repressor/operator systems, 4OHT/estrogen inducible systems, ecdysone-based inducible systems and FKBP12/FRAP (FKBP12-rapamycin complex) inducible systems. Such inducers are also discussed herein and in PCT/US2013/051418, incorporated herein by reference.

In general, any use that can be made of a Cas9, whether wt, nickase or a dead-Cas9 (with or without associated functional domains) can be pursued using the present split Cas9 approach. The benefit remains the inducible nature of the Cas9 activity.

As a further example, split Cas9 fusions with fluorescent proteins like GFP can be made. This would allow imaging of genomic loci (see “Dynamic Imaging of Genomic Loci in Living Human Cells by an Optimized CRISPR/Cas System” Chen B et al. Cell 2013), but in an inducible manner. As such, in some embodiments, one or more of the Cas9 parts may be associated (and in particular fused with) a fluorescent protein, for example GFP.

Further experiments address whether there is a difference in off-target cutting, between wild type (wt) and split Cas9, when on-target cutting is at the same level. To do this, Applicants use transient transfection of wt and split Cas9 plasmids and harvest at different time points. Applicants look for off-target activation after finding a set of samples where on-target cutting is within +/−5%. Applicants make cell lines with stable expression of wt or split Cas9 without guides (using lentivirus). After antibiotic selection, guides are delivered with a separate lentivirus and there is harvest at different time points to measure on-/off-target cutting.

Applicants introduce a destabilizing sequence (PEST, see “Use of mRNA- and protein-destabilizing elements to develop a highly responsive reporter system” Voon D C et al. Nucleic Acids Research 2005) into the FRB(N)Cas9-NES fragment to facilitate faster degradation and therefore reduced stability of the split dead-Cas9-VP64 complex.

Such destabilizing sequences as described elsewhere in this specification (including PEST) can be advantageous for use with split Cas9 systems.

Cell lines stably expressing split dead-Cas9-VP64 and MS2-p65-HSF1+guide are generated. A PLX resistance screen can demonstrate that a non-reversible, timed transcriptional activation can be useful in drug screens. This approach is may be advantageous when a split dead-Cas9-VP64 is not reversible.

In one aspect the invention provides a non-naturally occurring or engineered Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system which may comprise at least one switch wherein the activity of said Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system is controlled by contact with at least one inducer energy source as to the switch. In an embodiment of the invention the control as to the at least one switch or the activity of said Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system may be activated, enhanced, terminated or repressed. The contact with the at least one inducer energy source may result in a first effect and a second effect. The first effect may be one or more of nuclear import, nuclear export, recruitment of a secondary component (such as an effector molecule), conformational change (of protein, DNA or RNA), cleavage, release of cargo (such as a caged molecule or a co-factor), association or dissociation. The second effect may be one or more of activation, enhancement, termination or repression of the control as to the at least one switch or the activity of said Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system. In one embodiment the first effect and the second effect may occur in a cascade.

In another aspect of the invention the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system may further comprise at least one or more nuclear localization signal (NLS), nuclear export signal (NES), functional domain, flexible linker, mutation, deletion, alteration or truncation. The one or more of the NLS, the NES or the functional domain may be conditionally activated or inactivated. In another embodiment, the mutation may be one or more of a mutation in a transcription factor homology region, a mutation in a DNA binding domain (such as mutating basic residues of a basic helix loop helix), a mutation in an endogenous NLS or a mutation in an endogenous NES. The invention comprehends that the inducer energy source may be heat, ultrasound, electromagnetic energy or chemical. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the inducer energy source may be an antibiotic, a small molecule, a hormone, a hormone derivative, a steroid or a steroid derivative. In a more preferred embodiment, the inducer energy source maybe abscisic acid (ABA), doxycycline (DOX), cumate, rapamycin, 4-hydroxytamoxifen (4OHT), estrogen or ecdysone. The invention provides that the at least one switch may be selected from the group consisting of antibiotic based inducible systems, electromagnetic energy based inducible systems, small molecule based inducible systems, nuclear receptor based inducible systems and hormone based inducible systems. In a more preferred embodiment the at least one switch may be selected from the group consisting of tetracycline (Tet)/DOX inducible systems, light inducible systems, ABA inducible systems, cumate repressor/operator systems, 4OHT/estrogen inducible systems, ecdysone-based inducible systems and FKBP12/FRAP (FKBP12-rapamycin complex) inducible systems.

Aspects of control as detailed in this application relate to at least one or more switch(es). The term “switch” as used herein refers to a system or a set of components that act in a coordinated manner to affect a change, encompassing all aspects of biological function such as activation, repression, enhancement or termination of that function. In one aspect the term switch encompasses genetic switches which comprise the basic components of gene regulatory proteins and the specific DNA sequences that these proteins recognize. In one aspect, switches relate to inducible and repressible systems used in gene regulation. In general, an inducible system may be off unless there is the presence of some molecule (called an inducer) that allows for gene expression. The molecule is said to “induce expression”. The manner by which this happens is dependent on the control mechanisms as well as differences in cell type. A repressible system is on except in the presence of some molecule (called a corepressor) that suppresses gene expression. The molecule is said to “repress expression”. The manner by which this happens is dependent on the control mechanisms as well as differences in cell type. The term “inducible” as used herein may encompass all aspects of a switch irrespective of the molecular mechanism involved. Accordingly a switch as comprehended by the invention may include but is not limited to antibiotic based inducible systems, electromagnetic energy based inducible systems, small molecule based inducible systems, nuclear receptor based inducible systems and hormone based inducible systems. In preferred embodiments the switch may be a tetracycline (Tet)/DOX inducible system, a light inducible systems, a Abscisic acid (ABA) inducible system, a cumate repressor/operator system, a 4OHT/estrogen inducible system, an ecdysone-based inducible systems or a FKBP12/FRAP (FKBP12-rapamycin complex) inducible system.

The present Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system may be designed to modulate or alter expression of individual endogenous genes in a temporally and spatially precise manner. The Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system may be designed to bind to the promoter sequence of the gene of interest to change gene expression. The Cas9 may be spilt into two where one half is fused to one half of the cryptochrome heterodimer (cryptochrome-2 or CIB1), while the remaining cryptochrome partner is fused to the other half of the Cas9. In some aspects, a transcriptional effector domain may also be included in the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system. Effector domains may be either activators, such as VP16, VP64, or p65, or repressors, such as KRAB, EnR, or SID. In unstimulated state, the one half Cas9-cryptochrome2 protein localizes to the promoter of the gene of interest, but is not bound to the CIB1-effector protein. Upon stimulation with blue spectrum light, cryptochrome-2 becomes activated, undergoes a conformational change, and reveals its binding domain. CIB1, in turn, binds to cryptochrome-2 resulting in localization of the second half of the Cas9 to the promoter region of the gene of interest and initiating genome editing which may result in gene overexpression or silencing. Aspects of LITEs are further described in Liu, H et al., Science, 2008 and Kennedy M et al., Nature Methods 2010, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Activator and repressor domains which may further modulate function may be selected on the basis of species, strength, mechanism, duration, size, or any number of other parameters. Preferred effector domains include, but are not limited to, a transposase domain, integrase domain, recombinase domain, resolvase domain, invertase domain, protease domain, DNA methyltransferase domain, DNA demethylase domain, histone acetylase domain, histone deacetylases domain, nuclease domain, repressor domain, activator domain, nuclear-localization signal domains, transcription-protein recruiting domain, cellular uptake activity associated domain, nucleic acid binding domain or antibody presentation domain.

There are several different ways to generate chemical inducible systems as well: 1. ABI-PYL based system inducible by Abscisic Acid (ABA) (see, e.g., website at stke.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/abstract/sigtrans;4/164/r52), 2. FKBP-FRB based system inducible by rapamycin (or related chemicals based on rapamycin) (see, e.g., website at nature.com/nmeth/journal/v2/n6/full/nmeth763.html), 3. GID1-GAI based system inducible by Gibberellin (GA) (see, e.g., website at nature.com/nchembio/journal/v8/n5/full/nchembio.922.html).

Another system contemplated by the present invention is a chemical inducible system based on change in sub-cellular localization. Applicants also comprehend an inducible Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system engineered to target a genomic locus of interest wherein the Cas9 enzyme is split into two fusion constructs that are further linked to different parts of a chemical or energy sensitive protein. This chemical or energy sensitive protein will lead to a change in the sub-cellular localization of either half of the Cas9 enzyme (i.e. transportation of either half of the Cas9 enzyme from cytoplasm into the nucleus of the cells) upon the binding of a chemical or energy transfer to the chemical or energy sensitive protein. This transportation of fusion constructs from one sub-cellular compartments or organelles, in which its activity is sequestered due to lack of substrate for the reconstituted Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system, into another one in which the substrate is present would allow the components to come together and reconstitute functional activity and to then come in contact with its desired substrate (i.e. genomic DNA in the mammalian nucleus) and result in activation or repression of target gene expression.

Other inducible systems are contemplated such as, but not limited to, regulation by heavy-metals [Mayo K E et al., Cell 1982, 29:99-108; Searle P F et al., Mol Cell Biol 1985, 5:1480-1489 and Brinster R L et al., Nature (London) 1982, 296:39-42], steroid hormones [Hynes N E et al., Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 1981, 78:2038-2042; Klock G et al., Nature (London) 1987, 329:734-736 and Lee F et al., Nature (London) 1981, 294:228-232.], heat shock [Nouer L: Heat Shock Response. Boca Raton, Fla.: CRC; 1991] and other reagents have been developed [Mullick A, Massie B: Transcription, translation and the control of gene expression. In Encyclopedia of Cell Technology Edited by: Speir R E. Wiley; 2000:1140-1164 and Fussenegger M. Biotechnol Prog 2001, 17:1-51]. However, there are limitations with these inducible mammalian promoters such as “leakiness” of the “off” state and pleiotropic effects of inducers (heat shock, heavy metals, glucocorticoids etc.). The use of insect hormones (ecdysone) has been proposed in an attempt to reduce the interference with cellular processes in mammalian cells [No D et al., Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 1996, 93:3346-3351]. Another elegant system uses rapamycin as the inducer [Rivera V M et al., Nat Med 1996, 2:1028-1032] but the role of rapamycin as an immunosuppressant was a major limitation to its use in vivo and therefore it was necessary to find a biologically inert compound [Saez E et al., Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 2000, 97:14512-14517] for the control of gene expression.

See also below section on inducible systems.

Destabilized Enzyme: Enzymes According to the Invention Having or Associated with Destabilization Domains

In one aspect, the invention provides a non-naturally occurring or engineered CRISPR enzyme, preferably a class 2 CRISPR enzyme, preferably a Type V or VI CRISPR enzyme as described herein, such as preferably but without limitation Cas9 as described herein elsewhere, associated with at least one destabilization domain (DD); and, for shorthand purposes, such a non-naturally occurring or engineered CRISPR enzyme associated with at least one destabilization domain (DD) is herein termed a “DD-CRISPR enzyme”. It is to be understood that any of the CRISPR enzymes according to the invention as described herein elsewhere may be used as having or being associated with destabilizing domains as described herein below. Any of the methods, products, compositions and uses as described herein elsewhere are equally applicable with the CRISPR enzymes associated with destabilizing domains as further detailed below.

By means of further guidance, the following particular aspects and embodiments are provided.

As the aspects and embodiments as described in this section involve DD-CRISPR enzymes, DD-Cas, DD-Cas9Cas9, DD-CRISPR-Cas or DD-CRISPR-Cas9 systems or complexes, the terms “CRISPR”, “Cas”, “Cas9, “CRISPR system”, “CRISPR complex”, “CRISPR-Cas”, “CRISPR-Cas9” or the like, without the prefix “DD” may be considered as having the prefix DD, especially when the context permits so that the disclosure is reading on DD embodiments. Thus, in one aspect, the invention provides methods for using one or more elements of a CRISPR system (which can be read as DD-CRISPR system and/or CRISPR system”). The CRISPR complex of the invention provides an effective means for modifying a target polynucleotide. The CRISPR complex of the invention has a wide variety of utility including modifying (e.g., deleting, inserting, translocating, inactivating, activating) a target polynucleotide in a multiplicity of cell types. As such the CRISPR complex of the invention has a broad spectrum of applications in, e.g., gene therapy, drug screening, disease diagnosis, and prognosis.

In one aspect, the invention provides an engineered, non-naturally occurring DD-CRISPR-Cas system comprising a DD-CRISPR enzyme, e.g, such a DD-CRISPR enzyme wherein the CRISPR enzyme is a Cas protein (herein termed a “DD-Cas protein”, i.e., “DD” before a term such as “DD-CRISPR-Cas9 complex” means a CRISPR-Cas9 complex having a Cas9 protein having at least one destabilization domain associated therewith), advantageously a DD-Cas protein, e.g., a Cas9 protein associated with at least one destabilization domain (herein termed a “DD-Cas9 protein”) and guide RNA that targets a nucleic acid molecule such as a DNA molecule, whereby the guide RNA targets the nucleic acid molecule, e.g., DNA molecule. The nucleic acid molecule, e.g., DNA molecule can encode a gene product. In some embodiments the DD-Cas protein may cleave the DNA molecule encoding the gene product. In some embodiments expression of the gene product is altered. The Cas protein and the guide RNA do not naturally occur together. The invention comprehends the guide RNA comprising a guide sequence, optionally, where applicable, fused to a tracr sequence. The invention further comprehends coding for the Cas protein being codon optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In a preferred embodiment the eukaryotic cell is a mammalian cell and in a more preferred embodiment the mammalian cell is a human cell. Expression of the gene product may be decreased. The CRISPR enzyme may form part of a CRISPR-Cas system, which further comprises a guide RNA (gRNA) comprising a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell. In some embodiments, the functional CRISPR-Cas system binds to the target sequence. In some embodiments, the functional CRISPR-Cas system may edit the target sequence, e.g., the target sequence may comprise a genomic locus, and in some embodiments there may be an alteration of gene expression. In some embodiments, the functional CRISPR-Cas system may comprise further functional domains. In some embodiments, the invention provides a method for altering or modifying expression of a gene product. The method may comprise introducing into a cell containing a target nucleic acid, e.g., DNA molecule, or containing and expressing a target nucleic acid, e.g., DNA molecule; for instance, the target nucleic acid may encode a gene product or provide for expression of a gene product (e.g., a regulatory sequence).

In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is a DD-Cas9. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is a subtype V-A or V-B CRISPR enzyme. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is Cas9. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is an As DD-Cas9. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme is an Lb DD-Cas9. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme cleave both strands of DNA to produce a double strand break (DSB). In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is a nickase. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is a dual nickase. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is a deadCas9, e.g., a Cas9 having substantially no nuclease activity, e.g., no more than 5% nuclease activity as compared with a wild-type Cas9 or Cas9 not having had mutations to it. Suitable Cas9 mutations are described herein elsewhere, and include for instance D917A, E1006A, E1028A, D1227A, D1255A, N1257A, D917A, E1006A, E1028A, D1227A, D1255A and N1257A with reference to the amino acid positions in the FnCas9p RuvC domain; or for instance N580A, N584A, T587A, W609A, D610A, K613A, E614A, D616A, K624A, D625A, K627A and Y629A with reference to the putative second nuclease domain as described herein elsewhere.

In some general embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is associated with one or more functional domains. In some more specific embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is a deadCas9 and/or is associated with one or more functional domains. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme comprises a truncation of for instance the α-helical or mixed α/β secondary structure. In some embodiments, the truncation comprises removal or replacement with a linker. In some embodiments, the linker is branched or otherwise allows for tethering of the DD and/or a functional domain. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme is associated with the DD by way of a fusion protein. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme is fused to the DD. In other words, the DD may be associated with the CRISPR enzyme by fusion with said CRISPR enzyme. In some embodiments, the enzyme may be considered to be a modified CRISPR enzyme, wherein the CRISPR enzyme is fused to at least one destabilization domain (DD). In some embodiments, the DD may be associated to the CRISPR enzyme via a connector protein, for example using a system such as a marker system such as the streptavidin-biotin system. As such, provided is a fusion of a CRISPR enzyme with a connector protein specific for a high affinity ligand for that connector, whereas the DD is bound to said high affinity ligand. For example, strepavidin may be the connector fused to the CRISPR enzyme, while biotin may be bound to the DD. Upon co-localization, the streptavidin will bind to the biotin, thus connecting the CRISPR enzyme to the DD. For simplicity, a fusion of the CRISPR enzyme and the DD is preferred in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the fusion comprises a linker between the DD and the CRISPR enzyme. In some embodiments, the fusion may be to the N-terminal end of the CRISPR enzyme. In some embodiments, at least one DD is fused to the N-terminus of the CRISPR enzyme. In some embodiments, the fusion may be to the C-terminal end of the CRISPR enzyme. In some embodiments, at least one DD is fused to the C-terminus of the CRISPR enzyme. In some embodiments, one DD may be fused to the N-terminal end of the CRISPR enzyme with another DD fused to the C-terminal of the CRISPR enzyme. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme is associated with at least two DDs and wherein a first DD is fused to the N-terminus of the CRISPR enzyme and a second DD is fused to the C-terminus of the CRISPR enzyme, the first and second DDs being the same or different. In some embodiments, the fusion may be to the N-terminal end of the DD. In some embodiments, the fusion may be to the C-terminal end of the DD. In some embodiments, the fusion may between the C-terminal end of the CRISPR enzyme and the N-terminal end of the DD. In some embodiments, the fusion may between the C-terminal end of the DD and N-terminal end of the CRISPR enzyme. Less background was observed with a DD comprising at least one N-terminal fusion than a DD comprising at least one C terminal fusion. Combining N- and C-terminal fusions had the least background but lowest overall activity. Advantageously a DD is provided through at least one N-terminal fusion or at least one N terminal fusion plus at least one C-terminal fusion. And of course, a DD can be provided by at least one C-terminal fusion.

In certain embodiments, protein destabilizing domains, such as for inducible regulation, can be fused to the N-term and/or the C-term of e.g. Cas9. Additionally, destabilizing domains can be introduced into the primary sequence of e.g. Cas9 at solvent exposed loops. Computational analysis of the primary structure of Cas9 nucleases reveals three distinct regions. First a C-terminal RuvC like domain, which is the only functional characterized domain. Second a N-terminal alpha-helical region and thirst a mixed alpha and beta region, located between the RuvC like domain and the alpha-helical region. Several small stretches of unstructured regions are predicted within the Cas9 primary structure. Unstructured regions, which are exposed to the solvent and not conserved within different Cas9 orthologues, are preferred sides for splits and insertions of small protein sequences. In addition, these sides can be used to generate chimeric proteins between Cas9 orthologs.

In some embodiments, the DD is ER50. A corresponding stabilizing ligand for this DD is, in some embodiments, 4HT. As such, in some embodiments, one of the at least one DDs is ER50 and a stabilizing ligand therefor is 4HT. or CMP8 In some embodiments, the DD is DHFR50. A corresponding stabilizing ligand for this DD is, in some embodiments, TMP. As such, in some embodiments, one of the at least one DDs is DHFR50 and a stabilizing ligand therefor is TMP. In some embodiments, the DD is ER50. A corresponding stabilizing ligand for this DD is, in some embodiments, CMP8. CMP8 may therefore be an alternative stabilizing ligand to 4HT in the ER50 system. While it may be possible that CMP8 and 4HT can/should be used in a competitive matter, some cell types may be more susceptible to one or the other of these two ligands, and from this disclosure and the knowledge in the art the skilled person can use CMP8 and/or 4HT.

In some embodiments, one or two DDs may be fused to the N-terminal end of the CRISPR enzyme with one or two DDs fused to the C-terminal of the CRISPR enzyme. In some embodiments, the at least two DDs are associated with the CRISPR enzyme and the DDs are the same DD, i.e. the DDs are homologous. Thus, both (or two or more) of the DDs could be ER50 DDs. This is preferred in some embodiments. Alternatively, both (or two or more) of the DDs could be DHFR50 DDs. This is also preferred in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the at least two DDs are associated with the CRISPR enzyme and the DDs are different DDs, i.e. the DDs are heterologous. Thus, one of the DDS could be ER50 while one or more of the DDs or any other DDs could be DHFR50. Having two or more DDs which are heterologous may be advantageous as it would provide a greater level of degradation control. A tandem fusion of more than one DD at the N or C-term may enhance degradation; and such a tandem fusion can be, for example ER50-ER50-Cas9 or DHFR-DHFR-Cas9 It is envisaged that high levels of degradation would occur in the absence of either stabilizing ligand, intermediate levels of degradation would occur in the absence of one stabilizing ligand and the presence of the other (or another) stabilizing ligand, while low levels of degradation would occur in the presence of both (or two of more) of the stabilizing ligands. Control may also be imparted by having an N-terminal ER50 DD and a C-terminal DHFR50 DD.

In some embodiments, the fusion of the CRISPR enzyme with the DD comprises a linker between the DD and the CRISPR enzyme. In some embodiments, the linker is a GlySer linker. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme further comprises at least one Nuclear Export Signal (NES). In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme comprises two or more NESs. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme comprises at least one Nuclear Localization Signal (NLS). This may be in addition to an NES. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme comprises or consists essentially of or consists of a localization (nuclear import or export) signal as, or as part of, the linker between the CRISPR enzyme and the DD. HA or Flag tags are also within the ambit of the invention as linkers. Applicants use NLS and/or NES as linker and also use Glycine Serine linkers as short as GS up to (GGGGS)₃ (SEQ ID NO: 2).

In an aspect, the present invention provides a polynucleotide encoding the CRISPR enzyme and associated DD. In some embodiments, the encoded CRISPR enzyme and associated DD are operably linked to a first regulatory element. In some embodiments, a DD is also encoded and is operably linked to a second regulatory element. Advantageously, the DD here is to “mop up” the stabilizing ligand and so it is advantageously the same DD (i.e. the same type of Domain) as that associated with the enzyme, e.g., as herein discussed (with it understood that the term “mop up” is meant as discussed herein and may also convey performing so as to contribute or conclude activity). By mopping up the stabilizing ligand with excess DD that is not associated with the CRISPR enzyme, greater degradation of the CRISPR enzyme will be seen. It is envisaged, without being bound by theory, that as additional or excess un-associated DD is added that the equilibrium will shift away from the stabilizing ligand complexing or binding to the DD associated with the CRISPR enzyme and instead move towards more of the stabilizing ligand complexing or binding to the free DD (i.e. that not associated with the CRISPR enzyme). Thus, provision of excess or additional unassociated (o free) DD is preferred when it is desired to reduce CRISPR enzyme activity though increased degradation of the CRISPR enzyme. An excess of free DD with bind residual ligand and also takes away bound ligand from DD-Cas fusion. Therefore it accelerates DD-Cas degradation and enhances temporal control of Cas activity. In some embodiments, the first regulatory element is a promoter and may optionally include an enhancer. In some embodiments, the second regulatory element is a promoter and may optionally include an enhancer. In some embodiments, the first regulatory element is an early promoter. In some embodiments, the second regulatory element is a late promoter. In some embodiments, the second regulatory element is or comprises or consists essentially of an inducible control element, optionally the tet system, or a repressible control element, optionally the tetr system. An inducible promoter may be favorable e.g. rTTA to induce tet in the presence of doxycycline.

Attachment or association can be via a linker, e.g., a flexible glycine-serine (GlyGlyGlySer (SEQ ID NO: 1)) or (GGGS)₃ (SEQ ID NO: 40) or a rigid alpha-helical linker such as (Ala(GluAlaAlaAlaLys)Ala) (SEQ ID NO: 41). Linkers such as (GGGGS)₃ (SEQ ID NO: 2) are preferably used herein to separate protein or peptide domains. (GGGGS)₃ (SEQ ID NO: 2) is preferable because it is a relatively long linker (15 amino acids). The glycine residues are the most flexible and the serine residues enhance the chance that the linker is on the outside of the protein. (GGGGS)₆ (SEQ ID NO: 3) (GGGGS)₉ (SEQ ID NO: 4) or (GGGGS)₁₂ (SEQ ID NO: 5) may preferably be used as alternatives. Other preferred alternatives are (GGGGS)₁ (SEQ ID NO: 42), (GGGGS)₂ (SEQ ID NO: 43), (GGGGS)₄ (SEQ ID NO: 44), (GGGGS)₅ (SEQ ID NO: 45), (GGGGS)₇, (SEQ ID NO: 46) (GGGGS)₈ (SEQ ID NO: 47), (GGGGS)₁₀ (SEQ ID NO: 48), or (GGGGS)₁₁ (SEQ ID NO: 49). Alternative linkers are available, but highly flexible linkers are thought to work best to allow for maximum opportunity for the 2 parts of the Cas to come together and thus reconstitute Cas activity. One alternative is that the NLS of nucleoplasmin can be used as a linker. For example, a linker can also be used between the Cas and any functional domain. Again, a (GGGGS)₃ (SEQ ID NO: 2) linker may be used here (or the 6 (SEQ ID NO: 3), 9 (SEQ ID NO: 4), or 12 repeat (SEQ ID NO: 5) versions therefore) or the NLS of nucleoplasmin can be used as a linker between Cas and the functional domain.

In an aspect, the present invention provides a means for delivering the DD-CRISPR-Cas complex of the invention or polynucleotides discussed herein, e.g., particle(s) delivering component(s) of the complex, vector(s) comprising the polynucleotide(s) discussed herein (e.g., encoding the CRISPR enzyme, the DD; providing RNA of the CRISPR-Cas complex). In some embodiments, the vector may be a plasmid or a viral vector such as AAV, or lentivirus. Transient transfection with plasmids, e.g., into HEK cells may be advantageous, especially given the size limitations of AAV and that while Cas9 fits into AAV, one may reach an upper limit with additional coding as to the association with the DD(s).

Also provided is a model that constitutively expresses the CRISPR enzyme and associated DD. The organism may be a transgenic and may have been transfected the present vectors or may be the offspring of an organism so transfected. In a further aspect, the present invention provides compositions comprising the CRISPR enzyme and associated DD or the polynucleotides or vectors described herein. Also provides are CRISPR-Cas systems comprising guide RNAs.

Also provided is a method of treating a subject, e.g, a subject in need thereof, comprising inducing gene editing by transforming the subject with the polynucleotide encoding the system or any of the present vectors and administering stabilizing ligand to the subject. A suitable repair template may also be provided, for example delivered by a vector comprising said repair template. Also provided is a method of treating a subject, e.g., a subject in need thereof, comprising inducing transcriptional activation or repression by transforming the subject with the polynucleotide encoding the present system or any of the present vectors, wherein said polynucleotide or vector encodes or comprises the catalytically inactive CRISPR enzyme and one or more associated functional domains; the method further comprising administering a stabilizing ligand to the subject. These methods may also include delivering and/or expressing excess DD to the subject. Where any treatment is occurring ex vivo, for example in a cell culture, then it will be appreciated that the term ‘subject’ may be replaced by the phrase “cell or cell culture.”

Compositions comprising the present system for use in said method of treatment are also provided. A separate composition may comprise the stabilizing ligand. A kit of parts may be provided including such compositions. Use of the present system in the manufacture of a medicament for such methods of treatment are also provided. Use of the present system in screening is also provided by the present invention, e.g., gain of function screens. Cells which are artificially forced to overexpress a gene are be able to down regulate the gene over time (re-establishing equilibrium) e.g. by negative feedback loops. By the time the screen starts the unregulated gene might be reduced again. Using an inducible Cas9 activator allows one to induce transcription right before the screen and therefore minimizes the chance of false negative hits. Accordingly, by use of the instant invention in screening, e.g., gain of function screens, the chance of false negative results may be minimized.

In one aspect, the invention provides an engineered, non-naturally occurring CRISPR-Cas system comprising a DD-Cas protein and a guide RNA that targets a DNA molecule encoding a gene product in a cell, whereby the guide RNA targets the DNA molecule encoding the gene product and the Cas protein cleaves the DNA molecule encoding the gene product, whereby expression of the gene product is altered; and, wherein the Cas protein and the guide RNA do not naturally occur together. The invention comprehends the guide RNA comprising a guide sequence fused to a tracr sequence. In an embodiment of the invention the Cas protein is Cas9 protein. The invention further comprehends coding for the Cas protein being codon optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In a preferred embodiment the eukaryotic cell is a mammalian cell and in a more preferred embodiment the mammalian cell is a human cell. In a further embodiment of the invention, the expression of the gene product is decreased.

Where functional domains and the like are “associated” with one or other part of the enzyme, these are typically fusions. The term “associated with” is used here in respect of how one molecule ‘associates’ with respect to another, for example between parts of the CRISPR enzyme an a functional domain. The two may be considered to be tethered to each other. In the case of such protein-protein interactions, this association may be viewed in terms of recognition in the way an antibody recognizes an epitope. Alternatively, one protein may be associated with another protein via a fusion of the two, for instance one subunit being fused to another subunit. Fusion typically occurs by addition of the amino acid sequence of one to that of the other, for instance via splicing together of the nucleotide sequences that encode each protein or subunit. Alternatively, this may essentially be viewed as binding between two molecules or direct linkage, such as a fusion protein. In any event, the fusion protein may include a linker between the two subunits of interest (e.g. between the enzyme and the functional domain or between the adaptor protein and the functional domain). Thus, in some embodiments, the part of the CRISPR enzyme is associated with a functional domain by binding thereto. In other embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme is associated with a functional domain because the two are fused together, optionally via an intermediate linker. Examples of linkers include the GlySer linkers discussed herein. While a non-covalent bound DD may be able to initiate degradation of the associated Cas (e.g. Cas9), proteasome degradation involves unwinding of the protein chain; and, a fusion is preferred as it can provide that the DD stays connected to Cas upon degradation. However the CRISPR enzyme and DD are brought together, in the presence of a stabilizing ligand specific for the DD, a stabilization complex is formed. This complex comprises the stabilizing ligand bound to the DD. The complex also comprises the DD associated with the CRISPR enzyme. In the absence of said stabilizing ligand, degradation of the DD and its associated CRISPR enzyme is promoted.

Destabilizing domains have general utility to confer instability to a wide range of proteins; see, e.g., Miyazaki, J Am Chem Soc. Mar. 7, 2012; 134(9): 3942-3945, incorporated herein by reference. CMP8 or 4-hydroxytamoxifen can be destabilizing domains. More generally, A temperature-sensitive mutant of mammalian DHFR (DHFRts), a destabilizing residue by the N-end rule, was found to be stable at a permissive temperature but unstable at 37° C. The addition of methotrexate, a high-affinity ligand for mammalian DHFR, to cells expressing DHFRts inhibited degradation of the protein partially. This was an important demonstration that a small molecule ligand can stabilize a protein otherwise targeted for degradation in cells. A rapamycin derivative was used to stabilize an unstable mutant of the FRB domain of mTOR (FRB*) and restore the function of the fused kinase, GSK-3β.6,7 This system demonstrated that ligand-dependent stability represented an attractive strategy to regulate the function of a specific protein in a complex biological environment. A system to control protein activity can involve the DD becoming functional when the ubiquitin complementation occurs by rapamycin induced dimerization of FK506-binding protein and FKBP12. Mutants of human FKBP12 or ecDHFR protein can be engineered to be metabolically unstable in the absence of their high-affinity ligands, Shield-1 or trimethoprim (TMP), respectively. These mutants are some of the possible destabilizing domains (DDs) useful in the practice of the invention and instability of a DD as a fusion with a CRISPR enzyme confers to the CRISPR protein degradation of the entire fusion protein by the proteasome. Shield-1 and TMP bind to and stabilize the DD in a dose-dependent manner. The estrogen receptor ligand binding domain (ERLBD, residues 305-549 of ERS1) can also be engineered as a destabilizing domain. Since the estrogen receptor signaling pathway is involved in a variety of diseases such as breast cancer, the pathway has been widely studied and numerous agonist and antagonists of estrogen receptor have been developed. Thus, compatible pairs of ERLBD and drugs are known. There are ligands that bind to mutant but not wild-type forms of the ERLBD. By using one of these mutant domains encoding three mutations (L384M, M421G, G521R)12, it is possible to regulate the stability of an ERLBD-derived DD using a ligand that does not perturb endogenous estrogen-sensitive networks. An additional mutation (Y537S) can be introduced to further destabilize the ERLBD and to configure it as a potential DD candidate. This tetra-mutant is an advantageous DD development. The mutant ERLBD can be fused to a CRISPR enzyme and its stability can be regulated or perturbed using a ligand, whereby the CRISPR enzyme has a DD. Another DD can be a 12-kDa (107-amino-acid) tag based on a mutated FKBP protein, stabilized by Shield1 ligand; see, e.g., Nature Methods 5, (2008). For instance a DD can be a modified FK506 binding protein 12 (FKBP12) that binds to and is reversibly stabilized by a synthetic, biologically inert small molecule, Shield-1; see, e.g., Banaszynski L A, Chen L C, Maynard-Smith L A, Ooi A G, Wandless T J. A rapid, reversible, and tunable method to regulate protein function in living cells using synthetic small molecules. Cell. 2006; 126:995-1004; Banaszynski L A, Sellmyer M A, Contag C H, Wandless T J, Thorne S H. Chemical control of protein stability and function in living mice. Nat Med. 2008; 14:1123-1127; Maynard-Smith L A, Chen L C, Banaszynski L A, Ooi A G, Wandless T J. A directed approach for engineering conditional protein stability using biologically silent small molecules. The Journal of biological chemistry. 2007; 282:24866-24872; and Rodriguez, Chem Biol. Mar. 23, 2012; 19(3): 391-398—all of which are incorporated herein by reference and may be employed in the practice of the invention in selected a DD to associate with a CRISPR enzyme in the practice of this invention. As can be seen, the knowledge in the art includes a number of DDs, and the DD can be associated with, e.g., fused to, advantageously with a linker, to a CRISPR enzyme, whereby the DD can be stabilized in the presence of a ligand and when there is the absence thereof the DD can become destabilized, whereby the CRISPR enzyme is entirely destabilized, or the DD can be stabilized in the absence of a ligand and when the ligand is present the DD can become destabilized; the DD allows the CRISPR enzyme and hence the CRISPR-Cas complex or system to be regulated or controlled turned on or off so to speak, to thereby provide means for regulation or control of the system, e.g., in an in vivo or in vitro environment. For instance, when a protein of interest is expressed as a fusion with the DD tag, it is destabilized and rapidly degraded in the cell, e.g., by proteasomes. Thus, absence of stabilizing ligand leads to a D associated Cas being degraded. When a new DD is fused to a protein of interest, its instability is conferred to the protein of interest, resulting in the rapid degradation of the entire fusion protein. Peak activity for Cas is sometimes beneficial to reduce off-target effects. Thus, short bursts of high activity are preferred. The present invention is able to provide such peaks. In some senses the system is inducible. In some other senses, the system repressed in the absence of stabilizing ligand and de-repressed in the presence of stabilizing ligand. Without wishing to be bound by any theory and without making any promises, other benefits of the invention may include that it is:

-   -   Dosable (in contrast to a system that turns on or off, e.g., can         allow for variable CRISPR-Cas system or complex activity).     -   Orthogonal, e.g., a ligand only affects its cognate DD so two or         more systems can operate independently, and/or the CRISPR         enzymes can be from one or more orthologs.     -   Transportable, e.g., may work in different cell types or cell         lines.     -   Rapid.     -   Temporal Control.     -   Able to reduce background or off target Cas or Cas toxicity or         excess buildup of Cas by allowing the Cas to be degraded.

While the DD can be at N and/or C terminal(s) of the CRISPR enzyme, including a DD at one or more sides of a split (as defined herein elsewhere) e.g. Cas9(N)-linker-DD-linker-Cas9(C) is also a way to introduce a DD. In some embodiments, the if using only one terminal association of DD to the CRISPR enzyme is to be used, then it is preferred to use ER50 as the DD. In some embodiments, if using both N- and C-terminals, then use of either ER50 and/or DHFR50 is preferred. Particularly good results were seen with the N-terminal fusion, which is surprising. Having both N and C terminal fusion may be synergistic. The size of Destabilization Domain varies but is typically approx.—approx. 100-300 amino acids in size. The DD is preferably an engineered destabilizing protein domain. DDs and methods for making DDs, e.g., from a high affinity ligand and its ligand binding domain. The invention may be considered to be “orthogonal” as only the specific ligand will stabilize its respective (cognate) DD, it will have no effect on the stability of non-cognate DDs. A commercially available DD system is the CloneTech, ProteoTuner™ system; the stabilizing ligand is Shield1.

In some embodiments, the stabilizing ligand is a ‘small molecule’. In some embodiments, the stabilizing ligand is cell-permeable. It has a high affinity for it correspond DD. Suitable DD—stabilizing ligand pairs are known in the art. In general, the stabilizing ligand may be removed by:

-   -   Natural processing (e.g., proteasome degradation), e.g., in         vivo;     -   Mopping up, e.g. ex vivo/cell culture, by:         -   Provision of a preferred binding partner; or         -   Provision of XS substrate (DD without Cas),

In another aspect, the invention provides an engineered, non-naturally occurring vector system comprising one or more vectors comprising a first regulatory element operably linked to a CRISPR-Cas system guide RNA that targets a DNA molecule encoding a gene product and a second regulatory element operably linked coding for a DD-Cas protein. Components (a) and (b) may be located on same or different vectors of the system. The guide RNA targets the DNA molecule encoding the gene product in a cell and the DD-Cas protein may cleaves the DNA molecule encoding the gene product (it may cleave one or both strands or have substantially no nuclease activity), whereby expression of the gene product is altered; and, wherein the DD-Cas protein and the guide RNA do not naturally occur together. In an embodiment of the invention the DD-Cas protein is a DD-Cas9 protein. The invention further comprehends coding for the DD-Cas protein being codon optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In a preferred embodiment the eukaryotic cell is a mammalian cell and in a more preferred embodiment the mammalian cell is a human cell. In a further embodiment of the invention, the expression of the gene product is decreased.

In one aspect, the invention provides a vector system comprising one or more vectors. In some embodiments, the system comprises: (a) a first regulatory element operably linked to a direct repeat sequence and one or more insertion sites for inserting one or more guide sequences up- or downstream (whichever applicable) of the direct repeat sequence, wherein when expressed, the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a DD-CRISPR complex to a target sequence in a eukaryotic cell, wherein the CRISPR complex comprises a DD-CRISPR enzyme complexed with the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence; and (b) a second regulatory element operably linked to an enzyme-coding sequence encoding said DD-CRISPR enzyme comprising at least one nuclear localization sequence and/or at least one NES; wherein components (a) and (b) are located on the same or different vectors of the system. Where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided. In some embodiments, component (a) further comprises two or more guide sequences operably linked to the first regulatory element, wherein when expressed, each of the two or more guide sequences direct sequence specific binding of a DD-CRISPR complex to a different target sequence in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR complex comprises one or more nuclear localization sequences and/or one or more NES of sufficient strength to drive accumulation of said CRISPR complex in a detectable amount in or out of the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that a nuclear localization sequence and/or NES is not necessary for DD-CRISPR complex activity in eukaryotes, but that including such sequences enhances activity of the system, especially as to targeting nucleic acid molecules in the nucleus and/or having molecules exit the nucleus. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is a DD-Cas9. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is a DD-Cas9 enzyme. In some embodiments, the DD-Cas9 enzyme is derived Francisella tularensis 1, Francisella tularensis subsp. novicida, Prevotella albensis, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MC2017 1, Butyrivibrio proteoclasticus, Peregrinibacteria bacterium GW2011_GWA2_33_10, Parcubacteria bacterium GW2011_GWC2_44_17, Smithella sp. SCADC, Acidaminococcus sp. BV3L6, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MA2020, Candidatus Methanoplasma termitum, Eubacterium eligens, Moraxella bovoculi 237, Leptospira inadai, Lachnospiraceae bacterium ND2006, Porphyromonas crevioricanis 3, Prevotella disiens, or Porphyromonas macacae Cas9 (e.g., a Cas9 of one of these organisms modified to have or be associated with at least one DD), and may include further mutations or alterations or be a chimeric Cas9. The enzyme may be a DD-Cas9 homolog or ortholog. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is codon-optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme directs cleavage of one or two strands at the location of the target sequence. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme lacks DNA strand cleavage activity. In some embodiments, the first regulatory element is a polymerase III promoter. In some embodiments, the second regulatory element is a polymerase II promoter. In some embodiments, the guide sequence is at least 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25 nucleotides, or between 16-30, or between 16-25, or between 16-20 nucleotides in length. In general, and throughout this specification, the term “vector” refers to a nucleic acid molecule capable of transporting another nucleic acid to which it has been linked. Vectors include, but are not limited to, nucleic acid molecules that are single-stranded, double-stranded, or partially double-stranded; nucleic acid molecules that comprise one or more free ends, no free ends (e.g., circular); nucleic acid molecules that comprise DNA, RNA, or both; and other varieties of polynucleotides known in the art. One type of vector is a “plasmid,” which refers to a circular double stranded DNA loop into which additional DNA segments can be inserted, such as by standard molecular cloning techniques. Another type of vector is a viral vector, wherein virally-derived DNA or RNA sequences are present in the vector for packaging into a virus (e.g., retroviruses, replication defective retroviruses, adenoviruses, replication defective adenoviruses, and adeno-associated viruses). Viral vectors also include polynucleotides carried by a virus for transfection into a host cell. Certain vectors are capable of autonomous replication in a host cell into which they are introduced (e.g., bacterial vectors having a bacterial origin of replication and episomal mammalian vectors). Other vectors (e.g., non-episomal mammalian vectors) are integrated into the genome of a host cell upon introduction into the host cell, and thereby are replicated along with the host genome. Moreover, certain vectors are capable of directing the expression of genes to which they are operatively-linked. Such vectors are referred to herein as “expression vectors.” Common expression vectors of utility in recombinant DNA techniques are often in the form of plasmids.

Recombinant expression vectors can comprise a nucleic acid of the invention in a form suitable for expression of the nucleic acid in a host cell, which means that the recombinant expression vectors include one or more regulatory elements, which may be selected on the basis of the host cells to be used for expression, that is operatively-linked to the nucleic acid sequence to be expressed. Within a recombinant expression vector, “operably linked” is intended to mean that the nucleotide sequence of interest is linked to the regulatory element(s) in a manner that allows for expression of the nucleotide sequence (e.g., in an in vitro transcription/translation system or in a host cell when the vector is introduced into the host cell).

In some embodiments, a host cell is transiently or non-transiently transfected with one or more vectors described herein. In some embodiments, a cell is transfected as it naturally occurs in a subject. In some embodiments, a cell that is transfected is taken from a subject. In some embodiments, the cell is derived from cells taken from a subject, such as a cell line. A wide variety of cell lines for tissue culture are known in the art. Examples of cell lines include, but are not limited to, C8161, CCRF-CEM, MOLT, mIMCD-3, NHDF, HeLa-S3, Huhl, Huh4, Huh7, HUVEC, HASMC, HEKn, HEKa, MiaPaCell, Pancl, PC-3, TF1, CTLL-2, C1R, Rath, CV1, RPTE, A10, T24, J82, A375, ARH-77, Calul, SW480, SW620, SKOV3, SK-UT, CaCo2, P388D1, SEM-K2, WEHI-231, HB56, TIB55, Jurkat, J45.01, LRMB, Bcl-1, BC-3, IC21, DLD2, Raw264.7, NRK, NRK-52E, MRCS, MEF, Hep G2, HeLa B, HeLa T4, COS, COS-1, COS-6, COS-M6A, BS-C-1 monkey kidney epithelial, BALB/3T3 mouse embryo fibroblast, 3T3 Swiss, 3T3-L1, 132-d5 human fetal fibroblasts; 10.1 mouse fibroblasts, 293-T, 3T3, 721, 9L, A2780, A2780ADR, A2780cis, A172, A20, A253, A431, A-549, ALC, B16, B35, BCP-1 cells, BEAS-2B, bEnd.3, BHK-21, BR 293, BxPC3, C3H-10T1/2, C6/36, Cal-27, CHO, CHO-7, CHO-IR, CHO-K1, CHO-K2, CHO-T, CHO Dhfr −/−, COR-L23, COR-L23/CPR, COR-L23/5010, COR-L23/R23, COS-7, COV-434, CML T1, CMT, CT26, D17, DH82, DU145, DuCaP, EL4, EM2, EM3, EMT6/AR1, EMT6/AR10.0, FM3, H1299, H69, HB54, HB55, HCA2, HEK-293, HeLa, Hepa1c1c7, HL-60, HMEC, HT-29, Jurkat, JY cells, K562 cells, Ku812, KCL22, KG1, KYO1, LNCap, Ma-Mel 1-48, MC-38, MCF-7, MCF-10A, MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-468, MDA-MB-435, MDCK II, MDCK II, MOR/0.2R, MONO-MAC 6, MTD-1A, MyEnd, NCI-H69/CPR, NCI-H69/LX10, NCI-H69/LX20, NCI-H69/LX4, NIH-3T3, NALM-1, NW-145, OPCN/OPCT cell lines, Peer, PNT-1A/PNT 2, RenCa, RIN-5F, RMA/RMAS, Saos-2 cells, Sf-9, SkBr3, T2, T-47D, T84, THP1 cell line, U373, U87, U937, VCaP, Vero cells, WM39, WT-49, X63, YAC-1, YAR, and transgenic varieties thereof. Cell lines are available from a variety of sources known to those with skill in the art (see, e.g., the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) (Manassas, Va.)). In some embodiments, a cell transfected with one or more vectors described herein is used to establish a new cell line comprising one or more vector-derived sequences. In some embodiments, a cell transiently transfected with the components of a CRISPR system as described herein (such as by transient transfection of one or more vectors, or transfection with RNA), and modified through the activity of a CRISPR complex, is used to establish a new cell line comprising cells containing the modification but lacking any other exogenous sequence. In some embodiments, cells transiently or non-transiently transfected with one or more vectors described herein, or cell lines derived from such cells are used in assessing one or more test compounds.

The term “regulatory element” is intended to include promoters, enhancers, internal ribosomal entry sites (IRES), and other expression control elements (e.g., transcription termination signals, such as polyadenylation signals and poly-U sequences). Such regulatory elements are described, for example, in Goeddel, GENE EXPRESSION TECHNOLOGY: METHODS IN ENZYMOLOGY 185, Academic Press, San Diego, Calif. (1990). Regulatory elements include those that direct constitutive expression of a nucleotide sequence in many types of host cell and those that direct expression of the nucleotide sequence only in certain host cells (e.g., tissue-specific regulatory sequences). A tissue-specific promoter may direct expression primarily in a desired tissue of interest, such as muscle, neuron, bone, skin, blood, specific organs (e.g., liver, pancreas), or particular cell types (e.g., lymphocytes). Regulatory elements may also direct expression in a temporal-dependent manner, such as in a cell-cycle dependent or developmental stage-dependent manner, which may or may not also be tissue or cell-type specific. In some embodiments, a vector comprises one or more pol III promoter (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more pol III promoters), one or more pol II promoters (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more pol II promoters), one or more pol I promoters (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more pol I promoters), or combinations thereof. Examples of pol III promoters include, but are not limited to, U6 and H1 promoters. Examples of pol II promoters include, but are not limited to, the retroviral Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) LTR promoter (optionally with the RSV enhancer), the cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter (optionally with the CMV enhancer) [see, e.g., Boshart et al, Cell, 41:521-530 (1985)], the SV40 promoter, the dihydrofolate reductase promoter, the β-actin promoter, the phosphoglycerol kinase (PGK) promoter, and the EF1α promoter. Also encompassed by the term “regulatory element” are enhancer elements, such as WPRE; CMV enhancers; the R-U5′ segment in LTR of HTLV-I (Mol. Cell. Biol., Vol. 8(1), p. 466-472, 1988); SV40 enhancer; and the intron sequence between exons 2 and 3 of rabbit β-globin (Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA., Vol. 78(3), p. 1527-31, 1981). It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the design of the expression vector can depend on such factors as the choice of the host cell to be transformed, the level of expression desired, etc. A vector can be introduced into host cells to thereby produce transcripts, proteins, or peptides, including fusion proteins or peptides, encoded by nucleic acids as described herein (e.g., clustered regularly interspersed short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) transcripts, proteins, enzymes, mutant forms thereof, fusion proteins thereof, etc.).

Advantageous vectors include lentiviruses and adeno-associated viruses, and types of such vectors can also be selected for targeting particular types of cells.

In one aspect, the invention provides a vector comprising a regulatory element operably linked to an enzyme-coding sequence encoding a DD-CRISPR enzyme comprising one or more nuclear localization sequences and/or NES. In some embodiments, said regulatory element drives transcription of the DD-CRISPR enzyme in a eukaryotic cell such that said DD-CRISPR enzyme accumulates in a detectable amount in the nucleus of the eukaryotic cell and/or is exported from the nucleus. In some embodiments, the regulatory element is a polymerase II promoter. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is a DD-Cas9. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is a DD-Cas9 enzyme. In some embodiments, the DD-Cas9 enzyme is derived from Francisella tularensis 1, Francisella tularensis subsp. novicida, Prevotella albensis, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MC2017 1, Butyrivibrio proteoclasticus, Peregrinibacteria bacterium GW2011_GWA2_33_10, Parcubacteria bacterium GW2011_GWC2_44_17, Smithella sp. SCADC, Acidaminococcus sp. BV3L6, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MA2020, Candidatus Methanoplasma termitum, Eubacterium eligens, Moraxella bovoculi 237, Leptospira inadai, Lachnospiraceae bacterium ND2006, Porphyromonas crevioricanis 3, Prevotella disiens, or Porphyromonas macacae Cas9 (e.g., modified to have or be associated with at least one DD), and may include further alteration or mutation of the Cas9, and can be a chimeric Cas9. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is codon-optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme directs cleavage of one or two strands at the location of the target sequence. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme lacks or substantially DNA strand cleavage activity (e.g., no more than 5% nuclease activity as compared with a wild type enzyme or enzyme not having the mutation or alteration that decreases nuclease activity).

In one aspect, the invention provides a DD-CRISPR enzyme comprising one or more nuclear localization sequences and/or NES of sufficient strength to drive accumulation of said DD-CRISPR enzyme in a detectable amount in and/or out of the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is a DD-Cas9. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is a DD-Cas9 enzyme. In some embodiments, the DD-Cas9 enzyme is derived from Francisella tularensis 1, Francisella tularensis subsp. novicida, Prevotella albensis, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MC2017 1, Butyrivibrio proteoclasticus, Peregrinibacteria bacterium GW2011_GWA2_33_10, Parcubacteria bacterium GW2011_GWC2_44_17, Smithella sp. SCADC, Acidaminococcus sp. BV3L6, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MA2020, Candidatus Methanoplasma termitum, Eubacterium eligens, Moraxella bovoculi 237, Leptospira inadai, Lachnospiraceae bacterium ND2006, Porphyromonas crevioricanis 3, Prevotella disiens, or Porphyromonas macacae Cas9 (e.g., modified to have or be associated with at least one DD), and may include further alteration or mutation of the Cas9, and can be a chimeric Cas9. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is codon-optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme directs cleavage of one or two strands at the location of the target sequence. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme lacks or substantially DNA strand cleavage activity (e.g., no more than 5% nuclease activity as compared with a wild type enzyme or enzyme not having the mutation or alteration that decreases nuclease activity).

In one aspect, the invention provides a eukaryotic host cell comprising (a) a first regulatory element operably linked to a direct repeat sequence and one or more insertion sites for inserting one or more guide sequences up- or downstream (whichever applicable) of the direct repeat sequence, wherein when expressed, the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a DD-CRISPR complex to a target sequence in a eukaryotic cell, wherein the DD-CRISPR complex comprises a DD-CRISPR enzyme complexed with the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence; and/or (b) a second regulatory element operably linked to an enzyme-coding sequence encoding said DD-CRISPR enzyme comprising at least one nuclear localization sequence and/or NES. In some embodiments, the host cell comprises components (a) and (b). Where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided. In some embodiments, component (a), component (b), or components (a) and (b) are stably integrated into a genome of the host eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, component (a) further comprises two or more guide sequences operably linked to the first regulatory element, wherein when expressed, each of the two or more guide sequences direct sequence specific binding of a DD-CRISPR complex to a different target sequence in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme comprises one or more nuclear localization sequences and/or nuclear export sequences or NES of sufficient strength to drive accumulation of said CRISPR enzyme in a detectable amount in and/or out of the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is a Cas9. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme is a Cas9 enzyme. In some embodiments, the DD-Cas9 enzyme is derived from Francisella tularensis 1, Francisella tularensis subsp. novicida, Prevotella albensis, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MC2017 1, Butyrivibrio proteoclasticus, Peregrinibacteria bacterium GW2011_GWA2_33_10, Parcubacteria bacterium GW2011_GWC2_44_17, Smithella sp. SCADC, Acidaminococcus sp. BV3L6, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MA2020, Candidatus Methanoplasma termitum, Eubacterium eligens, Moraxella bovoculi 237, Leptospira inadai, Lachnospiraceae bacterium ND2006, Porphyromonas crevioricanis 3, Prevotella disiens, or Porphyromonas macacae Cas9 (e.g., modified to have or be associated with at least one DD), and may include further alteration or mutation of the Cas9, and can be a chimeric Cas9. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is codon-optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme directs cleavage of one or two strands at the location of the target sequence. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme lacks or substantially DNA strand cleavage activity (e.g., no more than 5% nuclease activity as compared with a wild type enzyme or enzyme not having the mutation or alteration that decreases nuclease activity). In some embodiments, the first regulatory element is a polymerase III promoter. In some embodiments, the second regulatory element is a polymerase II promoter. In some embodiments, the guide sequence is at least 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25 nucleotides, or between 16-30, or between 16-25, or between 16-20 nucleotides in length. In an aspect, the invention provides a non-human eukaryotic organism; preferably a multicellular eukaryotic organism, comprising a eukaryotic host cell according to any of the described embodiments. In other aspects, the invention provides a eukaryotic organism; preferably a multicellular eukaryotic organism, comprising a eukaryotic host cell according to any of the described embodiments. The organism in some embodiments of these aspects may be an animal; for example a mammal. Also, the organism may be an arthropod such as an insect. The organism also may be a plant. Further, the organism may be a fungus.

With respect to use of the CRISPR-Cas system generally, mention is made of the documents, including patent applications, patents, and patent publications cited throughout this disclosure as embodiments of the invention can be used as in those documents. CRISPR-Cas system(s) (e.g., single or multiplexed) can be used in conjunction with recent advances in crop genomics. Such CRISPR-Cas system(s) can be used to perform efficient and cost effective plant gene or genome interrogation or editing or manipulation—for instance, for rapid investigation and/or selection and/or interrogations and/or comparison and/or manipulations and/or transformation of plant genes or genomes; e.g., to create, identify, develop, optimize, or confer trait(s) or characteristic(s) to plant(s) or to transform a plant genome. There can accordingly be improved production of plants, new plants with new combinations of traits or characteristics or new plants with enhanced traits. Such CRISPR-Cas system(s) can be used with regard to plants in Site-Directed Integration (SDI) or Gene Editing (GE) or any Near Reverse Breeding (NRB) or Reverse Breeding (RB) techniques. With respect to use of the CRISPR-Cas system in plants, mention is made of the University of Arizona website “CRISPR-PLANT” (http://www.genome.arizona.edu/crispr/) (supported by Penn State and AGI). Embodiments of the invention can be used in genome editing in plants or where RNAi or similar genome editing techniques have been used previously; see, e.g., Nekrasov, “Plant genome editing made easy: targeted mutagenesis in model and crop plants using the CRISPR/Cas system,” Plant Methods 2013, 9:39 (doi:10.1186/1746-4811-9-39); Brooks, “Efficient gene editing in tomato in the first generation using the CRISPR/Cas9 system,” Plant Physiology September 2014 pp 114.247577; Shan, “Targeted genome modification of crop plants using a CRISPR-Cas system,” Nature Biotechnology 31, 686-688 (2013); Feng, “Efficient genome editing in plants using a CRISPR/Cas system,” Cell Research (2013) 23:1229-1232. doi:10.1038/cr.2013.114; published online 20 Aug. 2013; Xie, “RNA-guided genome editing in plants using a CRISPR-Cas system,” Mol Plant. 2013 November; 6(6):1975-83. doi: 10.1093/mp/sst119. Epub 2013 August 17; Xu, “Gene targeting using the Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated CRISPR-Cas system in rice,” Rice 2014, 7:5 (2014), Zhou et al., “Exploiting SNPs for biallelic CRISPR mutations in the outcrossing woody perennial Populus reveals 4-coumarate: CoA ligase specificity and Redundancy,” New Phytologist (2015) (Forum) 1-4 (available online only at www.newphytologist.com); Caliando et al, “Targeted DNA degradation using a CRISPR device stably carried in the host genome, NATURE COMMUNICATIONS 6:6989, DOI: 10.1038/ncomms7989, www.nature.com/naturecommunications DOI: 10.1038/ncomms7989; U.S. Pat. No. 6,603,061—Agrobacterium-Mediated Plant Transformation Method; U.S. Pat. No. 7,868,149—Plant Genome Sequences and Uses Thereof and US 2009/0100536—Transgenic Plants with Enhanced Agronomic Traits, all the contents and disclosure of each of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety. In the practice of the invention, the contents and disclosure of Morrell et al “Crop genomics: advances and applications,” Nat Rev Genet. 2011 Dec. 29; 13(2):85-96; each of which is incorporated by reference herein including as to how herein embodiments may be used as to plants. Accordingly, reference herein to animal cells may also apply, mutatis mutandis, to plant cells unless otherwise apparent.

In one aspect, the invention provides a kit comprising one or more of the components described herein. In some embodiments, the kit comprises a vector system and instructions for using the kit. In some embodiments, the vector system comprises (a) a first regulatory element operably linked to a direct repeat sequence and one or more insertion sites for inserting one or more guide sequences up- or downstream (whichever applicable) of the direct repeat sequence, wherein when expressed, the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR complex to a target sequence in a eukaryotic cell, wherein the CRISPR complex comprises a CRISPR enzyme complexed with the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence; and/or (b) a second regulatory element operably linked to an enzyme-coding sequence encoding said CRISPR enzyme comprising a nuclear localization sequence. Where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided. In some embodiments, the kit comprises components (a) and (b) located on the same or different vectors of the system. In some embodiments, component (a) further comprises two or more guide sequences operably linked to the first regulatory element, wherein when expressed, each of the two or more guide sequences direct sequence specific binding of a CRISPR complex to a different target sequence in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme comprises one or more nuclear localization sequences of sufficient strength to drive accumulation of said CRISPR enzyme in a detectable amount in the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme is a Cas9. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme is a Cas9 enzyme. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme is derived from Francisella tularensis 1, Francisella tularensis subsp. novicida, Prevotella albensis, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MC2017 1, Butyrivibrio proteoclasticus, Peregrinibacteria bacterium GW2011_GWA2_33_10, Parcubacteria bacterium GW2011_GWC2_44_17, Smithella sp. SCADC, Acidaminococcus sp. BV3L6, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MA2020, Candidatus Methanoplasma termitum, Eubacterium eligens, Moraxella bovoculi 237, Leptospira inadai, Lachnospiraceae bacterium ND2006, Porphyromonas crevioricanis 3, Prevotella disiens, or Porphyromonas macacae Cas9 (e.g., modified to have or be associated with at least one DD), and may include further alteration or mutation of the Cas9, and can be a chimeric Cas9. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is codon-optimized for expression in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme directs cleavage of one or two strands at the location of the target sequence. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme lacks or substantially DNA strand cleavage activity (e.g., no more than 5% nuclease activity as compared with a wild type enzyme or enzyme not having the mutation or alteration that decreases nuclease activity). In some embodiments, the first regulatory element is a polymerase III promoter. In some embodiments, the second regulatory element is a polymerase II promoter. In some embodiments, the guide sequence is at least 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25 nucleotides, or between 16-30, or between 16-25, or between 16-20 nucleotides in length.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method of modifying a target polynucleotide in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a DD-CRISPR complex to bind to the target polynucleotide, e.g., to effect cleavage of said target polynucleotide, thereby modifying the target polynucleotide, wherein the DD-CRISPR complex comprises a DD-CRISPR enzyme complexed with a guide sequence hybridized to a target sequence within said target polynucleotide, wherein said guide sequence is linked to a direct repeat sequence. Where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided (e.g. to provide a single guide RNA, sgRNA). In some embodiments, said cleavage comprises cleaving one or two strands at the location of the target sequence by said DD-CRISPR enzyme. In some embodiments, said cleavage results in decreased transcription of a target gene. In some embodiments, the method further comprises repairing said cleaved target polynucleotide by homologous recombination with an exogenous template polynucleotide, wherein said repair results in a mutation comprising an insertion, deletion, or substitution of one or more nucleotides of said target polynucleotide. In some embodiments, said mutation results in one or more amino acid changes in a protein expressed from a gene comprising the target sequence. In some embodiments, the method further comprises delivering one or more vectors to said eukaryotic cell, wherein the one or more vectors drive expression of one or more of: the DD-CRISPR enzyme and the guide sequence linked to the direct repeat sequence. Where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided. In some embodiments, said vectors are delivered to the eukaryotic cell in a subject. In some embodiments, said modifying takes place in said eukaryotic cell in a cell culture. In some embodiments, the method further comprises isolating said eukaryotic cell from a subject prior to said modifying. In some embodiments, the method further comprises returning said eukaryotic cell and/or cells derived therefrom to said subject.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method of modifying expression of a polynucleotide in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a DD-CRISPR complex to bind to the polynucleotide such that said binding results in increased or decreased expression of said polynucleotide; wherein the DD-CRISPR complex comprises a DD-CRISPR enzyme complexed with a guide sequence hybridized to a target sequence within said polynucleotide, wherein said guide sequence is linked to a direct repeat sequence. Where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided. In some embodiments, the method further comprises delivering one or more vectors to said eukaryotic cells, wherein the one or more vectors drive expression of one or more of: the DD-CRISPR enzyme and the guide sequence linked to the direct repeat sequence. Where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method of generating a model eukaryotic cell comprising a mutated disease gene. In some embodiments, a disease gene is any gene associated an increase in the risk of having or developing a disease. In some embodiments, the method comprises (a) introducing one or more vectors into a eukaryotic cell, wherein the one or more vectors drive expression of one or more of: a DD-CRISPR enzyme, a guide sequence linked to a direct repeat sequence (Where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided); and (b) allowing a DD-CRISPR complex to bind to a target polynucleotide, e.g., to effect cleavage of the target polynucleotide within said disease gene, wherein the DD-CRISPR complex comprises the DD-CRISPR enzyme complexed with the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence within the target polynucleotide, thereby generating a model eukaryotic cell comprising a mutated disease gene. In some embodiments, said cleavage comprises cleaving one or two strands at the location of the target sequence by said DD-CRISPR enzyme. In some embodiments, said cleavage results in decreased transcription of a target gene. In some embodiments, the method further comprises repairing said cleaved target polynucleotide by homologous recombination with an exogenous template polynucleotide, wherein said repair results in a mutation comprising an insertion, deletion, or substitution of one or more nucleotides of said target polynucleotide. In some embodiments, said mutation results in one or more amino acid changes in a protein expression from a gene comprising the target sequence.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method for developing a biologically active agent that modulates a cell signaling event associated with a disease gene. In some embodiments, a disease gene is any gene associated an increase in the risk of having or developing a disease. In some embodiments, the method comprises (a) contacting a test compound with a model cell of any one of the described embodiments; and (b) detecting a change in a readout that is indicative of a reduction or an augmentation of a cell signaling event associated with said mutation in said disease gene, thereby developing said biologically active agent that modulates said cell signaling event associated with said disease gene.

In one aspect, the invention provides a recombinant polynucleotide comprising a guide sequence up- or downstream (whichever applicable) of a direct repeat sequence, wherein the guide sequence when expressed directs sequence-specific binding of a DD-CRISPR complex to a corresponding target sequence present in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the target sequence is a viral sequence present in a eukaryotic cell. Where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided. In some embodiments, the target sequence is a proto-oncogene or an oncogene.

In one aspect the invention provides for a method of selecting one or more cell(s) by introducing one or more mutations in a gene in the one or more cell (s), the method comprising: introducing one or more vectors into the cell (s), wherein the one or more vectors drive expression of one or more of: a DD-CRISPR enzyme, a guide sequence linked to a direct repeat sequence (where applicable, a tracr sequence may also be provided), and an editing template; wherein the editing template comprises the one or more mutations that abolish DD-CRISPR enzyme cleavage; allowing homologous recombination of the editing template with the target polynucleotide in the cell(s) to be selected; allowing a CRISPR complex to bind to a target polynucleotide to effect cleavage of the target polynucleotide within said gene, wherein the DD-CRISPR complex comprises the DD-CRISPR enzyme complexed with the guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence within the target polynucleotide, wherein binding of the DD-CRISPR complex to the target polynucleotide induces cell death, thereby allowing one or more cell(s) in which one or more mutations have been introduced to be selected. In a preferred embodiment, the DD-CRISPR enzyme is DD-Cas9. In another aspect of the invention the cell to be selected may be a eukaryotic cell. Aspects of the invention allow for selection of specific cells without requiring a selection marker or a two-step process that may include a counter-selection system. The cell(s) may be prokaryotic or eukaryotic cells.

In a further aspect, the invention involves a computer-assisted method for identifying or designing potential compounds to fit within or bind to DD-CRISPR-Cas9 system or a functional portion thereof or vice versa (a computer-assisted method for identifying or designing potential DD-CRISPR-Cas9 systems or a functional portion thereof for binding to desired compounds) or a computer-assisted method for identifying or designing potential DD-CRISPR-Cas9 systems (e.g., with regard to predicting areas of the DD-CRISPR-Cas9 system to be able to be manipulated—for instance, based on crystal structure data or based on data of Cas9 orthologs, or with respect to where a functional group such as an activator or repressor can be attached to the DD-CRISPR-Cas9 system, or as to Cas9 truncations or as to designing nickases), said method comprising: using a computer system, e.g., a programmed computer comprising a processor, a data storage system, an input device, and an output device, the steps of: (a) inputting into the programmed computer through said input device data comprising the three-dimensional co-ordinates of a subset of the atoms from or pertaining to the DD-CRISPR-Cas9 crystal structure, e.g., in the DD-CRISPR-Cas9 system binding domain or alternatively or additionally in domains that vary based on variance among Cas9 orthologs or as to Cas9 or as to nickases or as to functional groups, optionally with structural information from CRISPR-Cas9 system complex(es), thereby generating a data set; (b) comparing, using said processor, said data set to a computer database of structures stored in said computer data storage system, e.g., structures of compounds that bind or putatively bind or that are desired to bind to a DD-CRISPR-Cas9 system or as to DD-Cas9 orthologs (e.g., as Cas9 or as to domains or regions that vary amongst Cas9 orthologs) or as to the DD-CRISPR-Cas9 crystal structure or as to nickases or as to functional groups; (c) selecting from said database, using computer methods, structure(s)—e.g., DD-CRISPR-Cas9 structures that may bind to desired structures, desired structures that may bind to certain DD-CRISPR-Cas9 structures, portions of the DD-CRISPR-Cas9 system that may be manipulated, e.g., based on data from other portions of the DD-CRISPR-Cas9 crystal structure and/or from DD-Cas9 orthologs, truncated Cas9s, novel nickases or particular functional groups, or positions for attaching functional groups to or mutating DD-CRISPR-Cas9 systems; (d) constructing, using computer methods, a model of the selected structure(s); and (e) outputting to said output device the selected structure(s); and optionally synthesizing one or more of the selected structure(s); and further optionally testing said synthesized selected structure(s) as or in a DD-CRISPR-Cas9 system; or, said method comprising: providing the co-ordinates of at least two atoms of the DD-CRISPR-Cas9 crystal structure, e.g., at least two atoms of the herein cited materials or co-ordinates of at least a sub-domain of the DD-CRISPR-Cas9 crystal structure (“selected co-ordinates”), providing the structure of a candidate comprising a binding molecule or of portions of the DD-CRISPR-Cas9 system that may be manipulated, e.g., based on data from other portions of the DD-CRISPR-Cas9 crystal structure and/or from Cas9 orthologs, or the structure of functional groups, and fitting the structure of the candidate to the selected co-ordinates, to thereby obtain product data comprising DD-CRISPR-Cas9 structures that may bind to desired structures, desired structures that may bind to certain DD-CRISPR-Cas9 structures, portions of the CRISPR-Cas9 system that may be manipulated, truncated Cas9, novel nickases, or particular functional groups, or positions for attaching functional groups or for mutating DD-CRISPR-Cas9 systems, with output thereof; and optionally synthesizing compound(s) from said product data and further optionally comprising testing said synthesized compound(s) as or in a DD-CRISPR-Cas9 system. The testing can comprise analyzing the DD-CRISPR-Cas9 system resulting from said synthesized selected structure(s), e.g., with respect to binding, or performing a desired function. The output in the foregoing methods can comprise data transmission, e.g., transmission of information via telecommunication, telephone, video conference, mass communication, e.g., presentation such as a computer presentation (eg POWERPOINT), internet, email, documentary communication such as a computer program (eg WORD) document and the like. Accordingly, the invention also comprehends computer readable media containing: atomic co-ordinate data according to the herein cited materials, said data defining the three dimensional structure of DD-CRISPR-Cas9 or at least one sub-domain thereof, or structure factor data for CRISPR-Cas9, said structure factor data being derivable from the herein cited materials. The computer readable media can also contain any data of the foregoing methods. The invention further comprehends methods a computer system for generating or performing rational design as in the foregoing methods containing either: atomic co-ordinate data according to herein cited materials, said data defining the three dimensional structure of DD-CRISPR-Cas9 or at least one sub-domain thereof, or structure factor data for CRISPR-Cas9, said structure factor data being derivable from the atomic co-ordinate data of herein cited materials. The invention further comprehends a method of doing business comprising providing to a user the computer system or the media or the three dimensional structure of DD-CRISPR-Cas9 or at least one sub-domain thereof, or structure factor data for DD-CRISPR-Cas9, said structure set forth in and said structure factor data being derivable from the atomic co-ordinate data of herein cited materials, or the herein computer media or a herein data transmission.

A “binding site” or an “active site” comprises or consists essentially of or consists of a site (such as an atom, a functional group of an amino acid residue or a plurality of such atoms and/or groups) in a binding cavity or region, which may bind to a compound such as a nucleic acid molecule, which is/are involved in binding. By “fitting”, is meant determining by automatic, or semi-automatic means, interactions between one or more atoms of a candidate molecule and at least one atom of a structure of the invention, and calculating the extent to which such interactions are stable. Interactions include attraction and repulsion, brought about by charge, steric considerations and the like. Various computer-based methods for fitting are described further By “root mean square (or rms) deviation”, we mean the square root of the arithmetic mean of the squares of the deviations from the mean. By a “computer system”, is meant the hardware means, software means and data storage means used to analyze atomic coordinate data. The minimum hardware means of the computer-based systems of the present invention typically comprises a central processing unit (CPU), input means, output means and data storage means. Desirably a display or monitor is provided to visualize structure data. The data storage means may be RAM or means for accessing computer readable media of the invention. Examples of such systems are computer and tablet devices running Unix, Windows or Apple operating systems. By “computer readable media”, is meant any medium or media, which can be read and accessed directly or indirectly by a computer e.g., so that the media is suitable for use in the above-mentioned computer system. Such media include, but are not limited to: magnetic storage media such as floppy discs, hard disc storage medium and magnetic tape; optical storage media such as optical discs or CD-ROM; electrical storage media such as RAM and ROM; thumb drive devices; cloud storage devices and hybrids of these categories such as magnetic/optical storage media.

In particular embodiments of the invention, the conformational variations in the crystal structures of the DD-CRISPR-Cas9 system or of components of the DD-CRISPR-Cas9 provide important and critical information about the flexibility or movement of protein structure regions relative to nucleotide (RNA or DNA) structure regions that may be important for DD-CRISPR-Cas system function. The structural information provided for Cas9 in the herein cited materials may be used to further engineer and optimize the herein DD-CRISPR-Cas system and this may be extrapolated to interrogate structure-function relationships in other CRISPR enzyme, e.g., DD-CRISPR enzyme systems as well, e.g, other Type V or VI CRISPR enzyme systems (for instance other Type V or VI DD-CRISPR enzyme systems). The invention comprehends optimized functional DD-CRISPR-Cas enzyme systems. In particular the DD-CRISPR enzyme comprises one or more mutations that converts it to a DNA binding protein to which functional domains exhibiting a function of interest may be recruited or appended or inserted or attached. In certain embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme comprises one or more mutations in a RuvC1 of the DD-CRISPR enzyme and/or is a mutation as otherwise as discussed herein. In some embodiments, the DD-CRISPR enzyme has one or more mutations in a catalytic domain, wherein when transcribed the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a DD-CRISPR complex to the target sequence, and wherein the enzyme further comprises a functional domain (e.g., for providing the destabilized domain or contributing thereto). The structural information provided in the herein cited materials allows for interrogation of guide interaction with the target DNA and the CRISPR enzyme (e.g., Cas9; for instance DD-CRISPR enzyme, e.g., DD-Cas9)) permitting engineering or alteration of sgRNA structure to optimize functionality of the entire DD-CRISPR-Cas system. For example, loops of the guide may be extended, without colliding with the Cas9 protein by the insertion of adaptor proteins that can bind to RNA. These adaptor proteins can further recruit effector proteins or fusions which comprise one or more functional domains. The functional domain may comprise, consist essentially of or consist of a transcriptional activation domain, e.g. VP64. The functional domain may comprise, consist essentially of a transcription repression domain, e.g., KRAB. In some embodiments, the transcription repression domain is or comprises or consists essentially of SID, or concatemers of SID (eg SID4×). In some embodiments, the functional domain comprise, consist essentially of an epigenetic modifying domain, such that an epigenetic modifying enzyme is provided. In some embodiments, the functional domain comprise, consist essentially of an activation domain, which may be the P65 activation domain.

Aspects of the invention encompass a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition that may comprise a guide RNA (gRNA) comprising a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell and a DD-CRISPR enzyme that may comprise at least one or more nuclear localization sequences, wherein the DD-CRISPR enzyme comprises one or two or more mutations, such that the enzyme has altered or diminished nuclease activity compared with the wild type enzyme, wherein at least one loop of the gRNA is modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins, and wherein the adaptor protein further recruits one or more heterologous functional domains. In an embodiment of the invention the DD-CRISPR enzyme comprises one or two or more mutations In another embodiment, the functional domain comprise, consist essentially of a transcriptional activation domain, e.g., VP64. In another embodiment, the functional domain comprise, consist essentially of a transcriptional repressor domain, e.g., KRAB domain, SID domain or a SID4× domain. In embodiments of the invention, the one or more heterologous functional domains have one or more activities selected from the group comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, RNA cleavage activity and nucleic acid binding activity. In further embodiments of the invention the cell is a eukaryotic cell or a mammalian cell or a human cell. In further embodiments, the adaptor protein is selected from the group comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of MS2, PP7, Qβ, F2, GA, fr, JP501, M12, R17, BZ13, JP34, JP500, KU1, M11, MX1, TW18, VK, SP, FI, ID2, NL95, TW19, AP205, ϕCb5, ϕCb8r, ϕCb12r, ϕCb23r, 7s, PRR1. In another embodiment, the at least one loop of the gRNA is tetraloop and/or loop2. An aspect of the invention encompasses methods of modifying a genomic locus of interest to change gene expression in a cell by introducing into the cell any of the compositions described herein.

An aspect of the invention is that the above elements are comprised in a single composition or comprised in individual compositions. These compositions may advantageously be applied to a host to elicit a functional effect on the genomic level.

In general, the gRNA are modified in a manner that provides specific binding sites (e.g., aptamers) for adapter proteins comprising one or more functional domains (e.g., via fusion protein) to bind to. The modified sgRNA are modified such that once the gRNA forms a DD-CRISPR complex (i.e. DD-CRISPR enzyme binding to gRNA and target) the adapter proteins bind and, the functional domain on the adapter protein is positioned in a spatial orientation which is advantageous for the attributed function to be effective. For example, if the functional domain comprise, consist essentially of a transcription activator (e.g., VP64 or p65), the transcription activator is placed in a spatial orientation which allows it to affect the transcription of the target. Likewise, a transcription repressor will be advantageously positioned to affect the transcription of the target and a nuclease (e.g., Fok1) will be advantageously positioned to cleave or partially cleave the target.

The skilled person will understand that modifications to the gRNA which allow for binding of the adapter+functional domain but not proper positioning of the adapter+functional domain (e.g., due to steric hindrance within the three dimensional structure of the CRISPR complex) are modifications which are not intended. The one or more modified gRNA may be modified at the tetra loop, the stem loop 1, stem loop 2, or stem loop 3, as described herein, preferably at either the tetra loop or stem loop 2, and most preferably at both the tetra loop and stem loop 2.

As explained herein the functional domains may be, for example, one or more domains from the group comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, RNA cleavage activity, DNA cleavage activity, nucleic acid binding activity, and molecular switches (e.g., light inducible). In some cases it is advantageous that additionally at least one NLS and/or NES is provided. In some instances, it is advantageous to position the NLS and/or NES at the N terminus. When more than one functional domain is included, the functional domains may be the same or different.

The gRNA may be designed to include multiple binding recognition sites (e.g., aptamers) specific to the same or different adapter protein. The gRNA may be designed to bind to the promoter region −1000-+1 nucleic acids upstream of the transcription start site (i.e. TSS), preferably −200 nucleic acids. This positioning improves functional domains which affect gene activation (e.g., transcription activators) or gene inhibition (e.g., transcription repressors). The modified gRNA may be one or more modified gRNAs targeted to one or more target loci (e.g., at least 1 gRNA, at least 2 gRNA, at least 5 gRNA, at least 10 gRNA, at least 20 gRNA, at least 30 g RNA, at least 50 gRNA) comprised in a composition.

Further, the DD-CRISPR enzyme with diminished nuclease activity is most effective when the nuclease activity is inactivated (e.g., nuclease inactivation of at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 97%, or 100% as compared with the wild type enzyme; or to put in another way, a DD-Cas9 enzyme or DD-CRISPR enzyme having advantageously about 0% of the nuclease activity of the non-mutated or wild type Cas9 enzyme or CRISPR enzyme, or no more than about 3% or about 5% or about 10% of the nuclease activity of the non-mutated or wild type Cas9 enzyme or CRISPR enzyme). This is possible by introducing mutations into the RuvC nuclease domain of the Cas9 and orthologs thereof. The inactivated CRISPR enzyme may have associated (e.g., via fusion protein) one or more functional domains, e.g., at least one destabilizing domain; or, for instance like those as described herein for the modified gRNA adaptor proteins, including for example, one or more domains from the group comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, RNA cleavage activity, DNA cleavage activity, nucleic acid binding activity, and molecular switches (e.g., light inducible). Preferred domains are Fok1, VP64, P65, HSF1, MyoD1. In the event that Fok1 is provided, it is advantageous that multiple Fok1 functional domains are provided to allow for a functional dimer and that gRNAs are designed to provide proper spacing for functional use (Fok1) as specifically described in Tsai et al. Nature Biotechnology, Vol. 32, Number 6, June 2014). The adaptor protein may utilize known linkers to attach such functional domains. In some cases it is advantageous that additionally at least one NLS or NES is provided. In some instances, it is advantageous to position the NLS or NES at the N terminus. When more than one functional domain is included, the functional domains may be the same or different. In general, the positioning of the one or more functional domain on the inactivated DD-CRISPR enzyme is one which allows for correct spatial orientation for the functional domain to affect the target with the attributed functional effect. For example, if the functional domain is a transcription activator (e.g., VP64 or p65), the transcription activator is placed in a spatial orientation which allows it to affect the transcription of the target. Likewise, a transcription repressor will be advantageously positioned to affect the transcription of the target, and a nuclease (e.g., Fok1) will be advantageously positioned to cleave or partially cleave the target. This may include positions other than the N-/C-terminus of the DD-CRISPR enzyme.

An adaptor protein may be any number of proteins that binds to an aptamer or recognition site introduced into the modified gRNA and which allows proper positioning of one or more functional domains, once the gRNA has been incorporated into the DD-CRISPR complex, to affect the target with the attributed function. As explained in detail in this application such may be coat proteins, preferably bacteriophage coat proteins. The functional domains associated with such adaptor proteins (e.g., in the form of fusion protein) may include, for example, one or more domains from the group comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, RNA cleavage activity, DNA cleavage activity, nucleic acid binding activity, and molecular switches (e.g., light inducible). Preferred domains are Fok1, VP64, P65, HSF1, MyoD1. In the event that the functional domain is a transcription activator or transcription repressor it is advantageous that additionally at least an NLS or NES is provided and preferably at the N terminus. When more than one functional domain is included, the functional domains may be the same or different. The adaptor protein may utilize known linkers to attach such functional domains. Such linkers may be used to associate the DD with the CRISPR enzyme or have the CRISPR enzyme comprise the DD.

Thus, gRNA, e.g., modified gRNA, the inactivated DD-CRISPR enzyme (with or without functional domains), and the binding protein with one or more functional domains, may each individually be comprised in a composition and administered to a host individually or collectively. Alternatively, these components may be provided in a single composition for administration to a host. Administration to a host may be performed via viral vectors known to the skilled person or described herein for delivery to a host (e.g., lentiviral vector, adenoviral vector, AAV vector). As explained herein, use of different selection markers (e.g., for lentiviral sgRNA selection) and concentration of gRNA (e.g., dependent on whether multiple gRNAs are used) may be advantageous for eliciting an improved effect. On the basis of this concept, several variations are appropriate to elicit a genomic locus event, including DNA cleavage, gene activation, or gene deactivation. Using the provided compositions, the person skilled in the art can advantageously and specifically target single or multiple loci with the same or different functional domains to elicit one or more genomic locus events. The compositions may be applied in a wide variety of methods for screening in libraries in cells and functional modeling in vivo (e.g., gene activation of lincRNA and identification of function; gain-of-function modeling; loss-of-function modeling; the use the compositions of the invention to establish cell lines and transgenic animals for optimization and screening purposes).

The current invention comprehends the use of the compositions of the current invention to establish and utilize conditional or inducible DD-CRISPR transgenic cell/animals; see, e.g., Platt et al., Cell (2014), 159(2): 440-455, or PCT patent publications cited herein, such as WO 2014/093622 (PCT/US2013/074667). For example, cells or animals such as non-human animals, e.g., vertebrates or mammals, such as rodents, e.g., mice, rats, or other laboratory or field animals, e.g., cats, dogs, sheep, etc., may be ‘knock-in’ whereby the animal conditionally or inducibly expresses DD-Cas9 akin to Platt et al. The target cell or animal thus comprises DD-CRISPR enzyme (e.g., DD-Cas9) conditionally or inducibly (e.g., in the form of Cre dependent constructs) and/or the adapter protein or DD conditionally or inducibly and, on expression of a vector introduced into the target cell, the vector expresses that which induces or gives rise to the condition of DD-CRISPR enzyme (e.g., DD-Cas9) expression and/or adaptor or DD expression in the target cell. By applying the teaching and compositions of the current invention with the known method of creating a CRISPR complex, inducible genomic events are also an aspect of the current invention. One mere example of this is the creation of a CRISPR knock-in/conditional transgenic animal (e.g., mouse comprising e.g., a Lox-Stop-polyA-Lox (LSL) cassette) and subsequent delivery of one or more compositions providing one or more modified gRNA (e.g., −200 nucleotides to TSS of a target gene of interest for gene activation purposes, e.g., modified gRNA with one or more aptamers recognized by coat proteins, e.g., MS2), one or more adapter proteins as described herein (MS2 binding protein linked to one or more VP64) and means for inducing the conditional animal (e.g., Cre recombinase for rendering DD-Cas9 expression inducible). Alternatively, the adaptor protein or DD may be provided as a conditional or inducible element with a conditional or inducible CRISPR enzyme to provide an effective model for screening purposes, which advantageously only requires minimal design and administration of specific gRNAs for a broad number of applications.

In some embodiments, phenotypic alteration is preferably the result of genome modification when a genetic disease is targeted, especially in methods of therapy and preferably where a repair template is provided to correct or alter the phenotype.

In some embodiments diseases that may be targeted include those concerned with disease-causing splice defects.

In some embodiments, cellular targets include Hemopoietic Stem/Progenitor Cells (CD34+); Human T cells; and Eye (retinal cells)—for example photoreceptor precursor cells.

In some embodiments Gene targets include: Human Beta Globin—HBB (for treating Sickle Cell Anemia, including by stimulating gene-conversion (using closely related HBD gene as an endogenous template)); CD3 (T-Cells); and CEP920—retina (eye).

In some embodiments disease targets also include: cancer; Sickle Cell Anemia (based on a point mutation); HBV, HIV; Beta-Thalassemia; and ophthalmic or ocular disease—for example Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA)-causing Splice Defect.

In some embodiments delivery methods include: Cationic Lipid Mediated “direct” delivery of Enzyme-Guide complex (RiboNucleoProtein) and electroporation of plasmid DNA.

Methods, products and uses described herein may be used for non-therapeutic purposes. Furthermore, any of the methods described herein may be applied in vitro and ex vivo.

In an aspect, provided is a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition comprising:

-   -   I. two or more CRISPR-Cas system polynucleotide sequences         comprising     -   (a) a first guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a first         target sequence in a polynucleotide locus,     -   (b) a second guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a second         target sequence in a polynucleotide locus,     -   (c) a direct repeat sequence,     -   (d) optionally, where applicable a tracr sequence; and     -   II. a Cas9 enzyme or a second polynucleotide sequence encoding         it,     -   wherein the Cas9 enzyme is a modified enzyme comprising one or         more DD as described herein,     -   wherein when transcribed, the first and the second guide         sequences direct sequence-specific binding of a first and a         second CRISPR complex to the first and second target sequences         respectively,     -   wherein the first CRISPR complex comprises the Cas9 enzyme         complexed with the first guide sequence that is hybridizable to         the first target sequence,     -   wherein the second CRISPR complex comprises the Cas9 enzyme         complexed with the second guide sequence that is hybridizable to         the second target sequence, and     -   wherein the first guide sequence directs cleavage of one strand         of the DNA duplex near the first target sequence and the second         guide sequence directs cleavage of the other strand near the         second target sequence inducing a double strand break, thereby         modifying the organism or the non-human or non-animal organism.

In another embodiment, the Cas9 is delivered into the cell as a protein. In another and particularly preferred embodiment, the Cas9 is delivered into the cell as a protein or as a nucleotide sequence encoding it. Delivery to the cell as a protein may include delivery of a Ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex, where the protein is complexed with the guide.

In an aspect, host cells and cell lines modified by or comprising the compositions, systems or modified enzymes of present invention are provided, including stem cells, and progeny thereof.

In an aspect, methods of cellular therapy are provided, where, for example, a single cell or a population of cells is sampled or cultured, wherein that cell or cells is or has been modified ex vivo as described herein, and is then re-introduced (sampled cells) or introduced (cultured cells) into the organism. Stem cells, whether embryonic or induce pluripotent or totipotent stem cells, are also particularly preferred in this regard. But, of course, in vivo embodiments are also envisaged.

Inventive methods can further comprise delivery of templates, such as repair templates, which may be dsODN or ssODN, see below. Delivery of templates may be via the cotemporaneous or separate from delivery of any or all the CRISPR enzyme or guide and via the same delivery mechanism or different. In some embodiments, it is preferred that the template is delivered together with the guide and, preferably, also the CRISPR enzyme. An example may be an AAV vector where the CRISPR enzyme is AsCas9 or LbCas9.

Inventive methods can further comprise: (a) delivering to the cell a double-stranded oligodeoxynucleotide (dsODN) comprising overhangs complimentary to the overhangs created by said double strand break, wherein said dsODN is integrated into the locus of interest; or —(b) delivering to the cell a single-stranded oligodeoxynucleotide (ssODN), wherein said ssODN acts as a template for homology directed repair of said double strand break. Inventive methods can be for the prevention or treatment of disease in an individual, optionally wherein said disease is caused by a defect in said locus of interest. Inventive methods can be conducted in vivo in the individual or ex vivo on a cell taken from the individual, optionally wherein said cell is returned to the individual.

The invention also comprehends products obtained from using CRISPR enzyme or Cas enzyme or Cas9 enzyme or CRISPR-CRISPR enzyme or CRISPR-Cas system or CRISPR-Cas9 system of the invention.

Structural Homology; Homologs and Orthologs

In embodiments, the Cas9 protein as referred to herein also encompasses a homologue or an orthologue of Cas9, such as of SpCas9 or eSpCas9. The terms “orthologue” (also referred to as “ortholog” herein) and “homologue” (also referred to as “homolog” herein) are well known in the art. By means of further guidance, a “homologue” of a protein as used herein is a protein of the same species which performs the same or a similar function as the protein it is a homologue of Homologs and orthologs may be identified by homology modelling (see, e.g., Greer, Science vol. 228 (1985) 1055, and Blundell et al. Eur J Biochem vol 172 (1988), 513) or “structural BLAST” (Dey F, Cliff Zhang Q, Petrey D, Honig B. Toward a “structural BLAST”: using structural relationships to infer function. Protein Sci. 2013 April; 22(4):359-66. doi: 10.1002/pro.2225.). See also Shmakov et al. (2015) for application in the field of CRISPR-Cas loci. Homologous proteins may but need not be structurally related, or are only partially structurally related. An “orthologue” of a protein as used herein is a protein of a different species which performs the same or a similar function as the protein it is an orthologue of. Orthologous proteins may but need not be structurally related, or are only partially structurally related. In particular embodiments, the homologue or orthologue of Cas9 as referred to herein has a sequence homology or identity of at least 80%, more preferably at least 85%, even more preferably at least 90%, such as for instance at least 95% with Cas9. In further embodiments, the homologue or orthologue of Cas9 as referred to herein has a sequence identity of at least 80%, more preferably at least 85%, even more preferably at least 90%, such as for instance at least 95% with the wild type Cas9. In particular embodiments, the homologue or orthologue of Cas9 as referred to herein has a sequence homology or identity of at least 80%, more preferably at least 85%, even more preferably at least 90%, such as for instance at least 95% with Cas9. In further embodiments, the homologue or orthologue of Cas9 as referred to herein has a sequence identity of at least 80%, more preferably at least 85%, even more preferably at least 90%, such as for instance at least 95% with the wild type SpCas9. Where the Cas9 has one or more mutations (mutated), the homologue or orthologue of said Cas9 as referred to herein has a sequence identity of at least 80%, more preferably at least 85%, even more preferably at least 90%, such as for instance at least 95% with the mutated Cas9.

Particular domains of orthologous proteins are similarly related. In certain embodiments, an orthologous domain of Cas9 as referred to herein has a sequence homology or identity of at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95% with Cas9. In particular embodiments, an orthologous domain of Cas9 as referred to herein has a sequence homology or identity of at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95% with SpCas9.

Delivery of the CRISPR-Cas9 Complex or Components Thereof

Through this disclosure and the knowledge in the art, CRISPR-Cas system, specifically the novel CRISPR systems described herein, or components thereof or nucleic acid molecules thereof (including, for instance HDR template) or nucleic acid molecules encoding or providing components thereof may be delivered by a delivery system herein described both generally and in detail.

Vector delivery, e.g., plasmid, viral delivery: The CRISPR enzyme, for instance a Cas9, Cas9 ortholog or mutant thereof, and/or any of the present RNAs, for instance a guide RNA, can be delivered using any suitable vector, e.g., plasmid or viral vectors, such as adeno associated virus (AAV), lentivirus, adenovirus or other viral vector types, or combinations thereof. Cas9 and one or more guide RNAs can be packaged into one or more vectors, e.g., plasmid or viral vectors. In some embodiments, the vector, e.g., plasmid or viral vector is delivered to the tissue of interest by, for example, an intramuscular injection, while other times the delivery is via intravenous, transdermal, intranasal, oral, mucosal, or other delivery methods. Such delivery may be either via a single dose, or multiple doses. One skilled in the art understands that the actual dosage to be delivered herein may vary greatly depending upon a variety of factors, such as the vector choice, the target cell, organism, or tissue, the general condition of the subject to be treated, the degree of transformation/modification sought, the administration route, the administration mode, the type of transformation/modification sought, etc.

Such a dosage may further contain, for example, a carrier (water, saline, ethanol, glycerol, lactose, sucrose, calcium phosphate, gelatin, dextran, agar, pectin, peanut oil, sesame oil, etc.), a diluent, a pharmaceutically-acceptable carrier (e.g., phosphate-buffered saline), a pharmaceutically-acceptable excipient, and/or other compounds known in the art. The dosage may further contain one or more pharmaceutically acceptable salts such as, for example, a mineral acid salt such as a hydrochloride, a hydrobromide, a phosphate, a sulfate, etc.; and the salts of organic acids such as acetates, propionates, malonates, benzoates, etc. Additionally, auxiliary substances, such as wetting or emulsifying agents, pH buffering substances, gels or gelling materials, flavorings, colorants, microspheres, polymers, suspension agents, etc. may also be present herein. In addition, one or more other conventional pharmaceutical ingredients, such as preservatives, humectants, suspending agents, surfactants, antioxidants, anticaking agents, fillers, chelating agents, coating agents, chemical stabilizers, etc. may also be present, especially if the dosage form is a reconstitutable form. Suitable exemplary ingredients include microcrystalline cellulose, carboxymethylcellulose sodium, polysorbate 80, phenylethyl alcohol, chlorobutanol, potassium sorbate, sorbic acid, sulfur dioxide, propyl gallate, the parabens, ethyl vanillin, glycerin, phenol, parachlorophenol, gelatin, albumin and a combination thereof. A thorough discussion of pharmaceutically acceptable excipients is available in REMINGTON'S PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES (Mack Pub. Co., N.J. 1991) which is incorporated by reference herein.

In an embodiment herein the delivery is via an adenovirus, which may be at a single booster dose containing at least 1×10⁵ particles (also referred to as particle units, pu) of adenoviral vector. In an embodiment herein, the dose preferably is at least about 1×10⁶ particles (for example, about 1×10⁶-1×10¹² particles), more preferably at least about 1×10⁷ particles, more preferably at least about 1×10⁸ particles (e.g., about 1×10⁸-1×10¹¹ particles or about 1×10⁸-1×10¹² particles), and most preferably at least about 1×10⁰ particles (e.g., about 1×10⁹-1×10¹⁰ particles or about 1×10⁹-1×10¹² particles), or even at least about 1×10¹⁰ particles (e.g., about 1×10¹⁰4×10¹² particles) of the adenoviral vector. Alternatively, the dose comprises no more than about 1×10¹⁴ particles, preferably no more than about 1×10¹³ particles, even more preferably no more than about 1×10¹² particles, even more preferably no more than about 1×10¹¹ particles, and most preferably no more than about 1×10¹⁰ particles (e.g., no more than about 1×10⁹ articles). Thus, the dose may contain a single dose of adenoviral vector with, for example, about 1×10⁶ particle units (pu), about 2×10⁶ pu, about 4×10⁶ pu, about 1×10⁷ pu, about 2×10⁷ pu, about 4×10⁷ pu, about 1×10⁸ pu, about 2×10⁸ pu, about 4×10⁸ pu, about 1×10⁹ pu, about 2×10⁹ pu, about 4×10⁹ pu, about 1×10¹⁰ pu, about 2×10¹⁰ pu, about 4×10¹⁰ pu, about 1×10¹¹ pu, about 2×10¹¹ pu, about 4×10¹¹ pu, about 1×10¹² pu, about 2×10¹² pu, or about 4×10¹² pu of adenoviral vector. See, for example, the adenoviral vectors in U.S. Pat. No. 8,454,972 B2 to Nabel, et. al., granted on Jun. 4, 2013; incorporated by reference herein, and the dosages at col 29, lines 36-58 thereof. In an embodiment herein, the adenovirus is delivered via multiple doses.

In an embodiment herein, the delivery is via an AAV. A therapeutically effective dosage for in vivo delivery of the AAV to a human is believed to be in the range of from about 20 to about 50 ml of saline solution containing from about 1×10¹⁰ to about 1×10¹⁰ functional AAV/ml solution. The dosage may be adjusted to balance the therapeutic benefit against any side effects. In an embodiment herein, the AAV dose is generally in the range of concentrations of from about 1×10⁵ to 1×10⁵⁰ genomes AAV, from about 1×10⁸ to 1×10²⁰ genomes AAV, from about 1×10¹⁰ to about 1×10¹⁶ genomes, or about 1×10¹¹ to about 1×10¹⁶ genomes AAV. A human dosage may be about 1×10¹³ genomes AAV. Such concentrations may be delivered in from about 0.001 ml to about 100 ml, about 0.05 to about 50 ml, or about 10 to about 25 ml of a carrier solution. Other effective dosages can be readily established by one of ordinary skill in the art through routine trials establishing dose response curves. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 8,404,658 B2 to Hajjar, et al., granted on Mar. 26, 2013, at col. 27, lines 45-60.

In an embodiment herein the delivery is via a plasmid. In such plasmid compositions, the dosage should be a sufficient amount of plasmid to elicit a response. For instance, suitable quantities of plasmid DNA in plasmid compositions can be from about 0.1 to about 2 mg, or from about 1 μg to about 10 μg per 70 kg individual. Plasmids of the invention will generally comprise (i) a promoter; (ii) a sequence encoding a CRISPR enzyme, operably linked to said promoter; (iii) a selectable marker; (iv) an origin of replication; and (v) a transcription terminator downstream of and operably linked to (ii). The plasmid can also encode the RNA components of a CRISPR complex, but one or more of these may instead be encoded on a different vector.

The doses herein are based on an average 70 kg individual. The frequency of administration is within the ambit of the medical or veterinary practitioner (e.g., physician, veterinarian), or scientist skilled in the art. It is also noted that mice used in experiments are typically about 20 g and from mice experiments one can scale up to a 70 kg individual.

In some embodiments the RNA molecules of the invention are delivered in liposome or lipofectin formulations and the like and can be prepared by methods well known to those skilled in the art. Such methods are, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,593,972, 5,589,466, and 5,580,859, which are herein incorporated by reference. Delivery systems aimed specifically at the enhanced and improved delivery of siRNA into mammalian cells have been developed, (see, for example, Shen et al FEBS Let. 2003, 539:111-114; Xia et al., Nat. Biotech. 2002, 20:1006-1010; Reich et al., Mol. Vision. 2003, 9: 210-216; Sorensen et al., J. Mol. Biol. 2003, 327: 761-766; Lewis et al., Nat. Gen. 2002, 32: 107-108 and Simeoni et al., NAR 2003, 31, 11: 2717-2724) and may be applied to the present invention. siRNA has recently been successfully used for inhibition of gene expression in primates (see for example. Tolentino et al., Retina 24(4):660 which may also be applied to the present invention.

Indeed, RNA delivery is a useful method of in vivo delivery. It is possible to deliver Cas9 and gRNA (and, for instance, HR repair template) into cells using liposomes or particle or nanoparticles. Thus delivery of the CRISPR enzyme, such as a Cas9 and/or delivery of the RNAs of the invention may be in RNA form and via microvesicles, liposomes or particle or nanoparticles. For example, Cas9 mRNA and gRNA can be packaged into liposomal particles for delivery in vivo. Liposomal transfection reagents such as lipofectamine from Life Technologies and other reagents on the market can effectively deliver RNA molecules into the liver.

Means of delivery of RNA also preferred include delivery of RNA via particles or nanoparticles (Cho, S., Goldberg, M., Son, S., Xu, Q., Yang, F., Mei, Y., Bogatyrev, S., Langer, R. and Anderson, D., Lipid-like nanoparticles for small interfering RNA delivery to endothelial cells, Advanced Functional Materials, 19: 3112-3118, 2010) or exosomes (Schroeder, A., Levins, C., Cortez, C., Langer, R., and Anderson, D., Lipid-based nanotherapeutics for siRNA delivery, Journal of Internal Medicine, 267: 9-21, 2010, PMID: 20059641). Indeed, exosomes have been shown to be particularly useful in delivery siRNA, a system with some parallels to the CRISPR system. For instance, El-Andaloussi S, et al. (“Exosome-mediated delivery of siRNA in vitro and in vivo.” Nat Protoc. 2012 December; 7(12):2112-26. doi: 10.1038/nprot.2012.131. Epub 2012 Nov. 15.) describe how exosomes are promising tools for drug delivery across different biological barriers and can be harnessed for delivery of siRNA in vitro and in vivo. Their approach is to generate targeted exosomes through transfection of an expression vector, comprising an exosomal protein fused with a peptide ligand. The exosomes are then purify and characterized from transfected cell supernatant, then RNA is loaded into the exosomes. Delivery or administration according to the invention can be performed with exosomes, in particular but not limited to the brain. Vitamin E (α-tocopherol) may be conjugated with CRISPR Cas and delivered to the brain along with high density lipoprotein (HDL), for example in a similar manner as was done by Uno et al. (HUMAN GENE THERAPY 22:711-719 (June 2011)) for delivering short-interfering RNA (siRNA) to the brain. Mice were infused via Osmotic minipumps (model 1007D; Alzet, Cupertino, Calif.) filled with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) or free TocsiBACE or Toc-siBACE/HDL and connected with Brain Infusion Kit 3 (Alzet). A brain-infusion cannula was placed about 0.5 mm posterior to the bregma at midline for infusion into the dorsal third ventricle. Uno et al. found that as little as 3 nmol of Toc-siRNA with HDL could induce a target reduction in comparable degree by the same ICV infusion method. A similar dosage of CRISPR Cas conjugated to α-tocopherol and co-administered with HDL targeted to the brain may be contemplated for humans in the present invention, for example, about 3 nmol to about 3 μmol of CRISPR Cas targeted to the brain may be contemplated. Zou et al. ((HUMAN GENE THERAPY 22:465-475 (April 2011)) describes a method of lentiviral-mediated delivery of short-hairpin RNAs targeting PKCγ for in vivo gene silencing in the spinal cord of rats. Zou et al. administered about 10 μl of a recombinant lentivirus having a titer of 1×10⁹ transducing units (TU)/ml by an intrathecal catheter. A similar dosage of CRISPR Cas expressed in a lentiviral vector targeted to the brain may be contemplated for humans in the present invention, for example, about 10-50 ml of CRISPR Cas targeted to the brain in a lentivirus having a titer of 1×10⁹ transducing units (TU)/ml may be contemplated.

In terms of local delivery to the brain, this can be achieved in various ways. For instance, material can be delivered intrastriatally e.g. by injection. Injection can be performed stereotactically via a craniotomy.

Enhancing NHEJ or HR efficiency is also helpful for delivery. It is preferred that NHEJ efficiency is enhanced by co-expressing end-processing enzymes such as Trex2 (Dumitrache et al. Genetics. 2011 August; 188(4): 787-797). It is preferred that HR efficiency is increased by transiently inhibiting NHEJ machineries such as Ku70 and Ku86. HR efficiency can also be increased by co-expressing prokaryotic or eukaryotic homologous recombination enzymes such as RecBCD, RecA.

Packaging and Promoters

Ways to package inventive Cas9 coding nucleic acid molecules, e.g., DNA, into vectors, e.g., viral vectors, to mediate genome modification in vivo include:

-   -   To achieve NHEJ-mediated gene knockout:     -   Single virus vector:     -   Vector containing two or more expression cassettes:     -   Promoter-Cas9 coding nucleic acid molecule-terminator     -   Promoter-gRNA1-terminator     -   Promoter-gRNA2-terminator     -   Promoter-gRNA(N)-terminator (up to size limit of vector)     -   Double virus vector:     -   Vector 1 containing one expression cassette for driving the         expression of Cas9     -   Promoter-Cas9 coding nucleic acid molecule-terminator     -   Vector 2 containing one more expression cassettes for driving         the expression of one or more guideRNAs     -   Promoter-gRNA1-terminator     -   Promoter-gRNA(N)-terminator (up to size limit of vector)     -   To mediate homology-directed repair.     -   In addition to the single and double virus vector approaches         described above, an additional vector can be used to deliver a         homology-direct repair template.

The promoter used to drive Cas9 coding nucleic acid molecule expression can include:

-   -   AAV ITR can serve as a promoter: this is advantageous for         eliminating the need for an additional promoter element (which         can take up space in the vector). The additional space freed up         can be used to drive the expression of additional elements         (gRNA, etc.). Also, ITR activity is relatively weaker, so can be         used to reduce potential toxicity due to over expression of         Cas9.     -   For ubiquitous expression, promoters that can be used include:         CMV, CAG, CBh, PGK, SV40, Ferritin heavy or light chains, etc.

For brain or other CNS expression, can use promoters: SynapsinI for all neurons, CaMKIIalpha for excitatory neurons, GAD67 or GAD65 or VGAT for GABAergic neurons, etc. For liver expression, can use Albumin promoter. For lung expression, can use SP-B. For endothelial cells, can use ICAM. For hematopoietic cells can use IFNbeta or CD45. For Osteoblasts can one can use the OG-2.

The promoter used to drive guide RNA can include:

-   -   Pol III promoters such as U6 or H1     -   Use of Pol II promoter and intronic cassettes to express gRNA

Adeno Associated Virus (AAV)

Cas9 or a Cas9 mutant or ortholog and one or more guide RNA can be delivered using adeno associated virus (AAV), lentivirus, adenovirus or other plasmid or viral vector types, in particular, using formulations and doses from, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 8,454,972 (formulations, doses for adenovirus), U.S. Pat. No. 8,404,658 (formulations, doses for AAV) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,846,946 (formulations, doses for DNA plasmids) and from clinical trials and publications regarding the clinical trials involving lentivirus, AAV and adenovirus. For examples, for AAV, the route of administration, formulation and dose can be as in U.S. Pat. No. 8,454,972 and as in clinical trials involving AAV. For Adenovirus, the route of administration, formulation and dose can be as in U.S. Pat. No. 8,404,658 and as in clinical trials involving adenovirus. For plasmid delivery, the route of administration, formulation and dose can be as in U.S. Pat. No. 5,846,946 and as in clinical studies involving plasmids. Doses may be based on or extrapolated to an average 70 kg individual (e.g. a male adult human), and can be adjusted for patients, subjects, mammals of different weight and species. Frequency of administration is within the ambit of the medical or veterinary practitioner (e.g., physician, veterinarian), depending on usual factors including the age, sex, general health, other conditions of the patient or subject and the particular condition or symptoms being addressed. The viral vectors can be injected into the tissue of interest. For cell-type specific genome modification, the expression of Cas9 can be driven by a cell-type specific promoter. For example, liver-specific expression might use the Albumin promoter and neuron-specific expression (e.g. for targeting CNS disorders) might use the Synapsin I promoter.

In terms of in vivo delivery, AAV is advantageous over other viral vectors for a couple of reasons:

-   -   Low toxicity (this may be due to the purification method not         requiring ultra centrifugation of cell particles that can         activate the immune response);     -   Low probability of causing insertional mutagenesis because it         doesn't integrate into the host genome.

AAV has a packaging limit of 4.5 or 4.75 Kb. This means that Cas9 as well as a promoter and transcription terminator have to be all fit into the same viral vector. Constructs larger than 4.5 or 4.75 Kb will lead to significantly reduced virus production. SpCas9 is quite large, the gene itself is over 4.1 Kb, which makes it difficult for packing into AAV. Therefore embodiments of the invention include utilizing homologs of Cas9 that are shorter. For example:

Species Cas9 Size Corynebacter diphtheriae 3252 Eubacterium ventriosum 3321 Streptococcus pasteurianus 3390 Lactobacillus farciminis 3378 Sphaerochaeta globus 3537 Azospirillum B510 3504 Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus 3150 Neisseria cinerea 3246 Roseburia intestinalis 3420 Parvibaculum lavamentivorans 3111 Staphylococcus aureus 3159 Nitratifractor salsuginis DSM 16511 3396 Campylobacter lari CF89-12 3009 Streptococcus thermophilus LMD-9 3396

These species are therefore, in general, preferred Cas9 species.

As to AAV, the AAV can be AAV1, AAV2, AAV5 or any combination thereof. One can select the AAV of the AAV with regard to the cells to be targeted; e.g., one can select AAV serotypes 1, 2, 5 or a hybrid capsid AAV1, AAV2, AAV5 or any combination thereof for targeting brain or neuronal cells; and one can select AAV4 for targeting cardiac tissue. AAV8 is useful for delivery to the liver. The herein promoters and vectors are preferred individually. A tabulation of certain AAV serotypes as to these cells (see Grimm, D. et al, J. Virol. 82: 5887-5911 (2008)) is as follows:

Cell Line AAV-1 AAV-2 AAV-3 AAV-4 AAV-5 AAV-6 AAV-8 AAV-9 Huh-7 13 100 2.5 0.0 0.1 10 0.7 0.0 HEK293 25 100 2.5 0.1 0.1 5 0.7 0.1 HeLa 3 100 2.0 0.1 6.7 1 0.2 0.1 HepG2 3 100 16.7 0.3 1.7 5 0.3 ND Hep1A 20 100 0.2 1.0 0.1 1 0.2 0.0 911 17 100 11 0.2 0.1 17 0.1 ND CHO 100 100 14 1.4 333 50 10 1.0 COS 33 100 33 3.3 5.0 14 2.0 0.5 MeWo 10 100 20 0.3 6.7 10 1.0 0.2 NIH3T3 10 100 2.9 2.9 0.3 10 0.3 ND A549 14 100 20 ND 0.5 10 0.5 0.1 HT1180 20 100 10 0.1 0.3 33 0.5 0.1 Monocytes 1111 100 ND ND 125 1429 ND ND Immature DC 2500 100 ND ND 222 2857 ND ND Mature DC 2222 100 ND ND 333 3333 ND ND

Lentivirus

Lentiviruses are complex retroviruses that have the ability to infect and express their genes in both mitotic and post-mitotic cells. The most commonly known lentivirus is the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which uses the envelope glycoproteins of other viruses to target a broad range of cell types.

Lentiviruses may be prepared as follows. After cloning pCasES10 (which contains a lentiviral transfer plasmid backbone), HEK293FT at low passage (p=5) were seeded in a T-75 flask to 50% confluence the day before transfection in DMEM with 10% fetal bovine serum and without antibiotics. After 20 hours, media was changed to OptiMEM (serum-free) media and transfection was done 4 hours later. Cells were transfected with 10 μg of lentiviral transfer plasmid (pCasES10) and the following packaging plasmids: 5 μg of pMD2.G (VSV-g pseudotype), and 7.5 ug of psPAX2 (gag/pol/rev/tat). Transfection was done in 4 mL OptiMEM with a cationic lipid delivery agent (50 uL Lipofectamine 2000 and 100 ul Plus reagent). After 6 hours, the media was changed to antibiotic-free DMEM with 10% fetal bovine serum. These methods use serum during cell culture, but serum-free methods are preferred.

Lentivirus may be purified as follows. Viral supernatants were harvested after 48 hours. Supernatants were first cleared of debris and filtered through a 0.45 um low protein binding (PVDF) filter. They were then spun in a ultracentrifuge for 2 hours at 24,000 rpm. Viral pellets were resuspended in 50 ul of DMEM overnight at 4 C. They were then aliquotted and immediately frozen at −80° C.

In another embodiment, minimal non-primate lentiviral vectors based on the equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV) are also contemplated, especially for ocular gene therapy (see, e.g., Balagaan, J Gene Med 2006; 8: 275-285). In another embodiment, RetinoStat®, an equine infectious anemia virus-based lentiviral gene therapy vector that expresses angiostatic proteins endostatin and angiostatin that is delivered via a subretinal injection for the treatment of the web form of age-related macular degeneration is also contemplated (see, e.g., Binley et al., HUMAN GENE THERAPY 23:980-991 (September 2012)) and this vector may be modified for the CRISPR-Cas system of the present invention.

In another embodiment, self-inactivating lentiviral vectors with an siRNA targeting a common exon shared by HIV tat/rev, a nucleolar-localizing TAR decoy, and an anti-CCR5-specific hammerhead ribozyme (see, e.g., DiGiusto et al. (2010) Sci Transl Med 2:36ra43) may be used/and or adapted to the CRISPR-Cas system of the present invention. A minimum of 2.5×106 CD34+ cells per kilogram patient weight may be collected and prestimulated for 16 to 20 hours in X-VIVO 15 medium (Lonza) containing 2 μmol/L-glutamine, stem cell factor (100 ng/ml), Flt-3 ligand (Flt-3L) (100 ng/ml), and thrombopoietin (10 ng/ml) (CellGenix) at a density of 2×106 cells/ml. Prestimulated cells may be transduced with lentiviral at a multiplicity of infection of 5 for 16 to 24 hours in 75-cm2 tissue culture flasks coated with fibronectin (25 mg/cm2) (RetroNectin, Takara Bio Inc.).

Lentiviral vectors have been disclosed as in the treatment for Parkinson's Disease, see, e.g., US Patent Publication No. 20120295960 and U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,303,910 and 7,351,585. Lentiviral vectors have also been disclosed for the treatment of ocular diseases, see e.g., US Patent Publication Nos. 20060281180, 20090007284, US20110117189; US20090017543; US20070054961, US20100317109. Lentiviral vectors have also been disclosed for delivery to the brain, see, e.g., US Patent Publication Nos. US20110293571; US20110293571, US20040013648, US20070025970, US20090111106 and U.S. Pat. No. 7,259,015.

RNA Delivery

RNA delivery: The CRISPR enzyme, for instance a Cas9, and/or any of the present RNAs, for instance a guide RNA, can also be delivered in the form of RNA. Cas9 mRNA can be generated using in vitro transcription. For example, Cas9 mRNA can be synthesized using a PCR cassette containing the following elements: T7_promoter-kozak sequence (GCCACC)-Cas9-3′ UTR from beta globin-polyA tail (a string of 120 or more adenines). The cassette can be used for transcription by T7 polymerase. Guide RNAs can also be transcribed using in vitro transcription from a cassette containing T7_promoter-GG-guide RNA sequence.

To enhance expression and reduce possible toxicity, the CRISPR enzyme-coding sequence and/or the guide RNA can be modified to include one or more modified nucleoside e.g. using pseudo-U or 5-Methyl-C.

mRNA delivery methods are especially promising for liver delivery currently.

Much clinical work on RNA delivery has focused on RNAi or antisense, but these systems can be adapted for delivery of RNA for implementing the present invention. References below to RNAi etc. should be read accordingly. Indeed, RNA delivery is a useful method of in vivo delivery. It is possible to deliver Cas9 and gRNA (and, for instance, HR repair template) into cells using liposomes or nanoparticles. Thus delivery of the CRISPR enzyme, such as a Cas9 and/or delivery of the RNAs of the invention may be in RNA form and via microvesicles, liposomes or nanoparticles. For example, Cas9 mRNA and gRNA can be packaged into liposomal particles for delivery in vivo. Liposomal transfection reagents such as lipofectamine from Life Technologies and other reagents on the market can effectively deliver RNA molecules into the liver.

Particle Delivery of RNA

Means of delivery of RNA also preferred include delivery of RNA via nanoparticles (Cho, S., Goldberg, M., Son, S., Xu, Q., Yang, F., Mei, Y., Bogatyrev, S., Langer, R. and Anderson, D., Lipid-like nanoparticles for small interfering RNA delivery to endothelial cells, Advanced Functional Materials, 19: 3112-3118, 2010) or exosomes (Schroeder, A., Levins, C., Cortez, C., Langer, R., and Anderson, D., Lipid-based nanotherapeutics for siRNA delivery, Journal of Internal Medicine, 267: 9-21, 2010, PMID: 20059641). Indeed, exosomes have been shown to be particularly useful in delivery siRNA, a system with some parallels to the CRISPR system. For instance, El-Andaloussi S, et al. (“Exosome-mediated delivery of siRNA in vitro and in vivo.” Nat Protoc. 2012 December; 7(12):2112-26. doi: 10.1038/nprot.2012.131. Epub 2012 Nov. 15.) describe how exosomes are promising tools for drug delivery across different biological barriers and can be harnessed for delivery of siRNA in vitro and in vivo. Their approach is to generate targeted exosomes through transfection of an expression vector, comprising an exosomal protein fused with a peptide ligand. The exosomes are then purify and characterized from transfected cell supernatant, then RNA is loaded into the exosomes. Delivery or administration according to the invention can be performed with exosomes, in particular but not limited to the brain. Vitamin E (α-tocopherol) may be conjugated with CRISPR Cas and delivered to the brain along with high density lipoprotein (HDL), for example in a similar manner as was done by Uno et al. (HUMAN GENE THERAPY 22:711-719 (June 2011)) for delivering short-interfering RNA (siRNA) to the brain. Mice were infused via Osmotic minipumps (model 1007D; Alzet, Cupertino, Calif.) filled with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) or free TocsiBACE or Toc-siBACE/HDL and connected with Brain Infusion Kit 3 (Alzet). A brain-infusion cannula was placed about 0.5 mm posterior to the bregma at midline for infusion into the dorsal third ventricle. Uno et al. found that as little as 3 nmol of Toc-siRNA with HDL could induce a target reduction in comparable degree by the same ICV infusion method. A similar dosage of CRISPR Cas conjugated to α-tocopherol and co-administered with HDL targeted to the brain may be contemplated for humans in the present invention, for example, about 3 nmol to about 3 μmol of CRISPR Cas targeted to the brain may be contemplated. Zou et al. ((HUMAN GENE THERAPY 22:465-475 (April 2011)) describes a method of lentiviral-mediated delivery of short-hairpin RNAs targeting PKCγ for in vivo gene silencing in the spinal cord of rats. Zou et al. administered about 10 μl of a recombinant lentivirus having a titer of 1×10⁹ transducing units (TU)/ml by an intrathecal catheter. A similar dosage of CRISPR Cas expressed in a lentiviral vector targeted to the brain may be contemplated for humans in the present invention, for example, about 10-50 ml of CRISPR Cas targeted to the brain in a lentivirus having a titer of 1×10⁹ transducing units (TU)/ml may be contemplated.

In terms of local delivery to the brain, this can be achieved in various ways. For instance, material can be delivered intrastriatally e.g. by injection. Injection can be performed stereotactically via a craniotomy.

Enhancing NHEJ or HR efficiency is also helpful for delivery. It is preferred that NHEJ efficiency is enhanced by co-expressing end-processing enzymes such as Trex2 (Dumitrache et al. Genetics. 2011 August; 188(4): 787-797). It is preferred that HR efficiency is increased by transiently inhibiting NHEJ machineries such as Ku70 and Ku86. HR efficiency can also be increased by co-expressing prokaryotic or eukaryotic homologous recombination enzymes such as RecBCD, RecA.

Plasmid Delivery

In an embodiment herein the delivery is via a plasmid. In such plasmid compositions, the dosage should be a sufficient amount of plasmid to elicit a response. For instance, suitable quantities of plasmid DNA in plasmid compositions can be from about 0.1 to about 2 mg, or from about 1 μg to about 10 μg per 70 kg individual. Plasmids of the invention will generally comprise (i) a promoter; (ii) a sequence encoding a CRISPR enzyme, operably linked to said promoter; (iii) a selectable marker; (iv) an origin of replication; and (v) a transcription terminator downstream of and operably linked to (ii). The plasmid can also encode the RNA components of a CRISPR complex, but one or more of these may instead be encoded on a different vector.

The doses herein are based on an average 70 kg individual. The frequency of administration is within the ambit of the medical or veterinary practitioner (e.g., physician, veterinarian), or scientist skilled in the art. It is also noted that mice used in experiments are typically about 20 g and from mice experiments one can scale up to a 70 kg individual.

In some embodiments the RNA molecules of the invention are delivered in liposome or lipofectin formulations and the like and can be prepared by methods well known to those skilled in the art. Such methods are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,593,972, 5,589,466, and 5,580,859, which are herein incorporated by reference. Delivery systems aimed specifically at the enhanced and improved delivery of siRNA into mammalian cells have been developed, (see, for example, Shen et al FEBS Let. 2003, 539:111-114; Xia et al., Nat. Biotech. 2002, 20:1006-1010; Reich et al., Mol. Vision. 2003, 9: 210-216; Sorensen et al., J. Mol. Biol. 2003, 327: 761-766; Lewis et al., Nat. Gen. 2002, 32: 107-108 and Simeoni et al., NAR 2003, 31, 11: 2717-2724) and may be applied to the present invention. siRNA has recently been successfully used for inhibition of gene expression in primates (see for example. Tolentino et al., Retina 24(4):660 which may also be applied to the present invention.

General Information on Particle Delivery

In addition, mention is made of PCT application PCT/US14/70057, Attorney Reference 47627.99.2060 and BI-2013/107 entitled “DELIVERY, USE AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS OF THE CRISPR-CAS SYSTEMS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR TARGETING DISORDERS AND DISEASES USING PARTICLE DELIVERY COMPONENTS (claiming priority from one or more or all of US provisional patent applications: 62/054,490, filed Sep. 24, 2014; 62/010,441, filed Jun. 10, 2014; and 61/915,118, 61/915,215 and 61/915,148, each filed on Dec. 12, 2013) (“the Particle Delivery PCT”), incorporated herein by reference, with respect to a method of preparing an sgRNA-and-Cas9 protein containing particle comprising admixing a mixture comprising an sgRNA and Cas9 protein (and optionally HDR template) with a mixture comprising or consisting essentially of or consisting of surfactant, phospholipid, biodegradable polymer, lipoprotein and alcohol; and particles from such a process. For example, wherein Cas9 protein and sgRNA were mixed together at a suitable, e.g., 3:1 to 1:3 or 2:1 to 1:2 or 1:1 molar ratio, at a suitable temperature, e.g., 15-30 C, e.g., 20-25 C, e.g., room temperature, for a suitable time, e.g., 15-45, such as 30 minutes, advantageously in sterile, nuclease free buffer, e.g., 1×PBS. Separately, particle components such as or comprising: a surfactant, e.g., cationic lipid, e.g., 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DOTAP); phospholipid, e.g., dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC); biodegradable polymer, such as an ethylene-glycol polymer or PEG, and a lipoprotein, such as a low-density lipoprotein, e.g., cholesterol were dissolved in an alcohol, advantageously a C1-6 alkyl alcohol, such as methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, e.g., 100% ethanol. The two solutions were mixed together to form particles containing the Cas9-sgRNA complexes. Accordingly, sgRNA may be pre-complexed with the Cas9 protein, before formulating the entire complex in a particle. Formulations may be made with a different molar ratio of different components known to promote delivery of nucleic acids into cells (e.g. 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DOTAP), 1,2-ditetradecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DMPC), polyethylene glycol (PEG), and cholesterol) For example DOTAP:DMPC:PEG:Cholesterol Molar Ratios may be DOTAP 100, DMPC 0, PEG 0, Cholesterol 0; or DOTAP 90, DMPC 0, PEG 10, Cholesterol 0; or DOTAP 90, DMPC 0, PEG 5, Cholesterol 5. DOTAP 100, DMPC 0, PEG 0, Cholesterol 0. That application accordingly comprehends admixing sgRNA, Cas9 protein and components that form a particle; as well as particles from such admixing. Aspects of the instant invention can involve particles; for example, particles using a process analogous to that of the Particle Delivery PCT, e.g., by admixing a mixture comprising sgRNA and/or Cas9 as in the instant invention and components that form a particle, e.g., as in the Particle Delivery PCT, to form a particle and particles from such admixing (or, of course, other particles involving sgRNA and/or Cas9 as in the instant invention).

Particle Delivery Systems and/or Formulations

Several types of particle delivery systems and/or formulations are known to be useful in a diverse spectrum of biomedical applications. In general, a particle is defined as a small object that behaves as a whole unit with respect to its transport and properties. Particles are further classified according to diameter. Coarse particles cover a range between 2,500 and 10,000 nanometers. Fine particles are sized between 100 and 2,500 nanometers. Ultrafine particles, or nanoparticles, are generally between 1 and 100 nanometers in size. The basis of the 100-nm limit is the fact that novel properties that differentiate particles from the bulk material typically develop at a critical length scale of under 100 nm.

As used herein, a particle delivery system/formulation is defined as any biological delivery system/formulation which includes a particle in accordance with the present invention. A particle in accordance with the present invention is any entity having a greatest dimension (e.g. diameter) of less than 100 microns (μm). In some embodiments, inventive particles have a greatest dimension of less than 10 μm. In some embodiments, inventive particles have a greatest dimension of less than 2000 nanometers (nm). In some embodiments, inventive particles have a greatest dimension of less than 1000 nanometers (nm). In some embodiments, inventive particles have a greatest dimension of less than 900 nm, 800 nm, 700 nm, 600 nm, 500 nm, 400 nm, 300 nm, 200 nm, or 100 nm. Typically, inventive particles have a greatest dimension (e.g., diameter) of 500 nm or less. In some embodiments, inventive particles have a greatest dimension (e.g., diameter) of 250 nm or less. In some embodiments, inventive particles have a greatest dimension (e.g., diameter) of 200 nm or less. In some embodiments, inventive particles have a greatest dimension (e.g., diameter) of 150 nm or less. In some embodiments, inventive particles have a greatest dimension (e.g., diameter) of 100 nm or less. Smaller particles, e.g., having a greatest dimension of 50 nm or less are used in some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, inventive particles have a greatest dimension ranging between 25 nm and 200 nm.

Particle characterization (including e.g., characterizing morphology, dimension, etc.) is done using a variety of different techniques. Common techniques are electron microscopy (TEM, SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, dual polarisation interferometry and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Characterization (dimension measurements) may be made as to native particles (i.e., preloading) or after loading of the cargo (herein cargo refers to e.g., one or more components of CRISPR-Cas system e.g., CRISPR enzyme or mRNA or guide RNA, or any combination thereof, and may include additional carriers and/or excipients) to provide particles of an optimal size for delivery for any in vitro, ex vivo and/or in vivo application of the present invention. In certain preferred embodiments, particle dimension (e.g., diameter) characterization is based on measurements using dynamic laser scattering (DLS). Mention is made of U.S. Pat. No. 8,709,843; U.S. Pat. No. 6,007,845; U.S. Pat. No. 5,855,913; U.S. Pat. No. 5,985,309; U.S. Pat. No. 5,543,158; and the publication by James E. Dahlman and Carmen Barnes et al. Nature Nanotechnology (2014) published online 11 May 2014, doi:10.1038/nnano.2014.84, concerning particles, methods of making and using them and measurements thereof.

Particles delivery systems within the scope of the present invention may be provided in any form, including but not limited to solid, semi-solid, emulsion, or colloidal particles. As such any of the delivery systems described herein, including but not limited to, e.g., lipid-based systems, liposomes, micelles, microvesicles, exosomes, or gene gun may be provided as particle delivery systems within the scope of the present invention.

Particles

CRISPR enzyme mRNA and guide RNA may be delivered simultaneously using particles or lipid envelopes; for instance, CRISPR enzyme and RNA of the invention, e.g., as a complex, can be delivered via a particle as in Dahlman et al., WO2015089419 A2 and documents cited therein, such as 7C1 (see, e.g., James E. Dahlman and Carmen Barnes et al. Nature Nanotechnology (2014) published online 11 May 2014, doi:10.1038/nnano.2014.84), e.g., delivery particle comprising lipid or lipidoid and hydrophilic polymer, e.g., cationic lipid and hydrophilic polymer, for instance wherein the cationic lipid comprises 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DOTAP) or 1,2-ditetradecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DMPC) and/or wherein the hydrophilic polymer comprises ethylene glycol or polyethylene glycol (PEG); and/or wherein the particle further comprises cholesterol (e.g., particle from formulation 1=DOTAP 100, DMPC 0, PEG 0, Cholesterol 0; formulation number 2=DOTAP 90, DMPC 0, PEG 10, Cholesterol 0; formulation number 3=DOTAP 90, DMPC 0, PEG 5, Cholesterol 5), wherein particles are formed using an efficient, multistep process wherein first, effector protein and RNA are mixed together, e.g., at a 1:1 molar ratio, e.g., at room temperature, e.g., for 30 minutes, e.g., in sterile, nuclease free 1×PBS; and separately, DOTAP, DMPC, PEG, and cholesterol as applicable for the formulation are dissolved in alcohol, e.g., 100% ethanol; and, the two solutions are mixed together to form particles containing the complexes).

For example, Su X, Fricke J, Kavanagh D G, Irvine D J (“In vitro and in vivo mRNA delivery using lipid-enveloped pH-responsive polymer nanoparticles” Mol Pharm. 2011 Jun. 6; 8(3):774-87. doi: 10.1021/mp100390w. Epub 2011 Apr. 1) describes biodegradable core-shell structured particles with a poly(β-amino ester) (PBAE) core enveloped by a phospholipid bilayer shell. These were developed for in vivo mRNA delivery. The pH-responsive PBAE component was chosen to promote endosome disruption, while the lipid surface layer was selected to minimize toxicity of the polycation core. Such are, therefore, preferred for delivering RNA of the present invention.

In one embodiment, particles based on self assembling bioadhesive polymers are contemplated, which may be applied to oral delivery of peptides, intravenous delivery of peptides and nasal delivery of peptides, all to the brain. Other embodiments, such as oral absorption and ocular delivery of hydrophobic drugs are also contemplated. The molecular envelope technology involves an engineered polymer envelope which is protected and delivered to the site of the disease (see, e.g., Mazza, M. et al. ACSNano, 2013. 7(2): 1016-1026; Siew, A., et al. Mol Pharm, 2012. 9(1):14-28; Lalatsa, A., et al. J Contr Rel, 2012. 161(2):523-36; Lalatsa, A., et al., Mol Pharm, 2012. 9(6):1665-80; Lalatsa, A., et al. Mol Pharm, 2012. 9(6):1764-74; Garrett, N. L., et al. J Biophotonics, 2012. 5(5-6):458-68; Garrett, N. L., et al. J Raman Spect, 2012. 43(5):681-688; Ahmad, S., et al. J Royal Soc Interface 2010. 7:S423-33; Uchegbu, I. F. Expert Opin Drug Deliv, 2006. 3(5):629-40; Qu, X., et al. Biomacromolecules, 2006. 7(12):3452-9 and Uchegbu, I. F., et al. Int J Pharm, 2001. 224:185-199). Doses of about 5 mg/kg are contemplated, with single or multiple doses, depending on the target tissue.

In one embodiment, particles that can deliver RNA to a cancer cell to stop tumor growth developed by Dan Anderson's lab at MIT may be used/and or adapted to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention. In particular, the Anderson lab developed fully automated, combinatorial systems for the synthesis, purification, characterization, and formulation of new biomaterials and nanoformulations. See, e.g., Alabi et al., Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2013 August 6; 110(32):12881-6; Zhang et al., Adv Mater. 2013 Sep. 6; 25(33):4641-5; Jiang et al., Nano Lett. 2013 Mar. 13; 13(3):1059-64; Karagiannis et al., ACS Nano. 2012 Oct. 23; 6(10):8484-7; Whitehead et al., ACS Nano. 2012 August 28; 6(8):6922-9 and Lee et al., Nat Nanotechnol. 2012 Jun. 3; 7(6):389-93.

US patent application 20110293703 relates to lipidoid compounds are also particularly useful in the administration of polynucleotides, which may be applied to deliver the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention. In one aspect, the aminoalcohol lipidoid compounds are combined with an agent to be delivered to a cell or a subject to form microparticles, nanoparticles, liposomes, or micelles. The agent to be delivered by the particles, liposomes, or micelles may be in the form of a gas, liquid, or solid, and the agent may be a polynucleotide, protein, peptide, or small molecule. The minoalcohol lipidoid compounds may be combined with other aminoalcohol lipidoid compounds, polymers (synthetic or natural), surfactants, cholesterol, carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, etc. to form the particles. These particles may then optionally be combined with a pharmaceutical excipient to form a pharmaceutical composition.

US Patent Publication No. 20110293703 also provides methods of preparing the aminoalcohol lipidoid compounds. One or more equivalents of an amine are allowed to react with one or more equivalents of an epoxide-terminated compound under suitable conditions to form an aminoalcohol lipidoid compound of the present invention. In certain embodiments, all the amino groups of the amine are fully reacted with the epoxide-terminated compound to form tertiary amines. In other embodiments, all the amino groups of the amine are not fully reacted with the epoxide-terminated compound to form tertiary amines thereby resulting in primary or secondary amines in the aminoalcohol lipidoid compound. These primary or secondary amines are left as is or may be reacted with another electrophile such as a different epoxide-terminated compound. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, reacting an amine with less than excess of epoxide-terminated compound will result in a plurality of different aminoalcohol lipidoid compounds with various numbers of tails. Certain amines may be fully functionalized with two epoxide-derived compound tails while other molecules will not be completely functionalized with epoxide-derived compound tails. For example, a diamine or polyamine may include one, two, three, or four epoxide-derived compound tails off the various amino moieties of the molecule resulting in primary, secondary, and tertiary amines. In certain embodiments, all the amino groups are not fully functionalized. In certain embodiments, two of the same types of epoxide-terminated compounds are used. In other embodiments, two or more different epoxide-terminated compounds are used. The synthesis of the aminoalcohol lipidoid compounds is performed with or without solvent, and the synthesis may be performed at higher temperatures ranging from 30-100° C., preferably at approximately 50-90° C. The prepared aminoalcohol lipidoid compounds may be optionally purified. For example, the mixture of aminoalcohol lipidoid compounds may be purified to yield an aminoalcohol lipidoid compound with a particular number of epoxide-derived compound tails. Or the mixture may be purified to yield a particular stereo- or regioisomer. The aminoalcohol lipidoid compounds may also be alkylated using an alkyl halide (e.g., methyl iodide) or other alkylating agent, and/or they may be acylated.

US Patent Publication No. 20110293703 also provides libraries of aminoalcohol lipidoid compounds prepared by the inventive methods. These aminoalcohol lipidoid compounds may be prepared and/or screened using high-throughput techniques involving liquid handlers, robots, microtiter plates, computers, etc. In certain embodiments, the aminoalcohol lipidoid compounds are screened for their ability to transfect polynucleotides or other agents (e.g., proteins, peptides, small molecules) into the cell.

US Patent Publication No. 20130302401 relates to a class of poly(beta-amino alcohols) (PBAAs) has been prepared using combinatorial polymerization. The inventive PBAAs may be used in biotechnology and biomedical applications as coatings (such as coatings of films or multilayer films for medical devices or implants), additives, materials, excipients, non-biofouling agents, micropatterning agents, and cellular encapsulation agents. When used as surface coatings, these PBAAs elicited different levels of inflammation, both in vitro and in vivo, depending on their chemical structures. The large chemical diversity of this class of materials allowed us to identify polymer coatings that inhibit macrophage activation in vitro. Furthermore, these coatings reduce the recruitment of inflammatory cells, and reduce fibrosis, following the subcutaneous implantation of carboxylated polystyrene microparticles. These polymers may be used to form polyelectrolyte complex capsules for cell encapsulation. The invention may also have many other biological applications such as antimicrobial coatings, DNA or siRNA delivery, and stem cell tissue engineering. The teachings of US Patent Publication No. 20130302401 may be applied to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention. In some embodiments, sugar-based particles may be used, for example GalNAc, as described herein and with reference to WO2014118272 (incorporated herein by reference) and Nair, J K et al., 2014, Journal of the American Chemical Society 136 (49), 16958-16961) and the teaching herein, especially in respect of delivery applies to all particles unless otherwise apparent.

In another embodiment, lipid particles (LNPs) are contemplated. An antitransthyretin small interfering RNA has been encapsulated in lipid particles and delivered to humans (see, e.g., Coelho et al., N Engl J Med 2013; 369:819-29), and such a system may be adapted and applied to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention. Doses of about 0.01 to about 1 mg per kg of body weight administered intravenously are contemplated. Medications to reduce the risk of infusion-related reactions are contemplated, such as dexamethasone, acetaminophen, diphenhydramine or cetirizine, and ranitidine are contemplated. Multiple doses of about 0.3 mg per kilogram every 4 weeks for five doses are also contemplated.

LNPs have been shown to be highly effective in delivering siRNAs to the liver (see, e.g., Tabernero et al., Cancer Discovery, April 2013, Vol. 3, No. 4, pages 363-470) and are therefore contemplated for delivering RNA encoding CRISPR Cas to the liver. A dosage of about four doses of 6 mg/kg of the LNP every two weeks may be contemplated. Tabernero et al. demonstrated that tumor regression was observed after the first 2 cycles of LNPs dosed at 0.7 mg/kg, and by the end of 6 cycles the patient had achieved a partial response with complete regression of the lymph node metastasis and substantial shrinkage of the liver tumors. A complete response was obtained after 40 doses in this patient, who has remained in remission and completed treatment after receiving doses over 26 months. Two patients with RCC and extrahepatic sites of disease including kidney, lung, and lymph nodes that were progressing following prior therapy with VEGF pathway inhibitors had stable disease at all sites for approximately 8 to 12 months, and a patient with PNET and liver metastases continued on the extension study for 18 months (36 doses) with stable disease.

However, the charge of the LNP must be taken into consideration. As cationic lipids combined with negatively charged lipids to induce nonbilayer structures that facilitate intracellular delivery. Because charged LNPs are rapidly cleared from circulation following intravenous injection, ionizable cationic lipids with pKa values below 7 were developed (see, e.g., Rosin et al, Molecular Therapy, vol. 19, no. 12, pages 1286-2200, December 2011). Negatively charged polymers such as RNA may be loaded into LNPs at low pH values (e.g., pH 4) where the ionizable lipids display a positive charge. However, at physiological pH values, the LNPs exhibit a low surface charge compatible with longer circulation times. Four species of ionizable cationic lipids have been focused upon, namely 1,2-dilineoyl-3-dimethylammonium-propane (DLinDAP), 1,2-dilinoleyloxy-3-N,N-dimethylaminopropane (DLinDMA), 1,2-dilinoleyloxy-keto-N,N-dimethyl-3-aminopropane (DLinKDMA), and 1,2-dilinoleyl-4-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)-[1,3]-dioxolane (DLinKC2-DMA). It has been shown that LNP siRNA systems containing these lipids exhibit remarkably different gene silencing properties in hepatocytes in vivo, with potencies varying according to the series DLinKC2-DMA>DLinKDMA>DLinDMA>>DLinDAP employing a Factor VII gene silencing model (see, e.g., Rosin et al, Molecular Therapy, vol. 19, no. 12, pages 1286-2200, December 2011). A dosage of 1 μg/ml of LNP or CRISPR-Cas RNA in or associated with the LNP may be contemplated, especially for a formulation containing DLinKC2-DMA.

Preparation of LNPs and CRISPR Cas encapsulation may be used/and or adapted from Rosin et al, Molecular Therapy, vol. 19, no. 12, pages 1286-2200, December 2011). The cationic lipids 1,2-dilineoyl-3-dimethylammonium-propane (DLinDAP), 1,2-dilinoleyloxy-3-N,N-dimethylaminopropane (DLinDMA), 1,2-dilinoleyloxyketo-N,N-dimethyl-3-aminopropane (DLinK-DMA), 1,2-dilinoleyl-4-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)-[1,3]-dioxolane (DLinKC2-DMA), (3-o-[2″-(methoxypolyethyleneglycol 2000) succinoyl]-1,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycol (PEG-S-DMG), and R-3-[(ω-methoxy-poly(ethylene glycol)2000) carbamoyl]-1,2-dimyristyloxlpropyl-3-amine (PEG-C-DOMG) may be provided by Tekmira Pharmaceuticals (Vancouver, Canada) or synthesized. Cholesterol may be purchased from Sigma (St Louis, Mo.). The specific CRISPR Cas RNA may be encapsulated in LNPs containing DLinDAP, DLinDMA, DLinK-DMA, and DLinKC2-DMA (cationic lipid:DSPC:CHOL: PEGS-DMG or PEG-C-DOMG at 40:10:40:10 molar ratios). When required, 0.2% SP-DiOC18 (Invitrogen, Burlington, Canada) may be incorporated to assess cellular uptake, intracellular delivery, and biodistribution. Encapsulation may be performed by dissolving lipid mixtures comprised of cationic lipid:DSPC:cholesterol:PEG-c-DOMG (40:10:40:10 molar ratio) in ethanol to a final lipid concentration of 10 mmol/l. This ethanol solution of lipid may be added drop-wise to 50 mmol/l citrate, pH 4.0 to form multilamellar vesicles to produce a final concentration of 30% ethanol vol/vol. Large unilamellar vesicles may be formed following extrusion of multilamellar vesicles through two stacked 80 nm Nuclepore polycarbonate filters using the Extruder (Northern Lipids, Vancouver, Canada). Encapsulation may be achieved by adding RNA dissolved at 2 mg/ml in 50 mmol/l citrate, pH 4.0 containing 30% ethanol vol/vol drop-wise to extruded preformed large unilamellar vesicles and incubation at 31° C. for 30 minutes with constant mixing to a final RNA/lipid weight ratio of 0.06/1 wt/wt. Removal of ethanol and neutralization of formulation buffer were performed by dialysis against phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), pH 7.4 for 16 hours using Spectra/Por 2 regenerated cellulose dialysis membranes. Particle size distribution may be determined by dynamic light scattering using a NICOMP 370 particle sizer, the vesicle/intensity modes, and Gaussian fitting (Nicomp Particle Sizing, Santa Barbara, Calif.). The particle size for all three LNP systems may be ˜70 nm in diameter. RNA encapsulation efficiency may be determined by removal of free RNA using VivaPureD MiniH columns (Sartorius Stedim Biotech) from samples collected before and after dialysis. The encapsulated RNA may be extracted from the eluted particles and quantified at 260 nm. RNA to lipid ratio was determined by measurement of cholesterol content in vesicles using the Cholesterol E enzymatic assay from Wako Chemicals USA (Richmond, Va.). In conjunction with the herein discussion of LNPs and PEG lipids, PEGylated liposomes or LNPs are likewise suitable for delivery of a CRISPR-Cas system or components thereof.

Preparation of large LNPs may be used/and or adapted from Rosin et al, Molecular Therapy, vol. 19, no. 12, pages 1286-2200, December 2011. A lipid premix solution (20.4 mg/ml total lipid concentration) may be prepared in ethanol containing DLinKC2-DMA, DSPC, and cholesterol at 50:10:38.5 molar ratios. Sodium acetate may be added to the lipid premix at a molar ratio of 0.75:1 (sodium acetate:DLinKC2-DMA). The lipids may be subsequently hydrated by combining the mixture with 1.85 volumes of citrate buffer (10 mmol/l, pH 3.0) with vigorous stirring, resulting in spontaneous liposome formation in aqueous buffer containing 35% ethanol. The liposome solution may be incubated at 37° C. to allow for time-dependent increase in particle size. Aliquots may be removed at various times during incubation to investigate changes in liposome size by dynamic light scattering (Zetasizer Nano ZS, Malvern Instruments, Worcestershire, UK). Once the desired particle size is achieved, an aqueous PEG lipid solution (stock=10 mg/ml PEG-DMG in 35% (vol/vol) ethanol) may be added to the liposome mixture to yield a final PEG molar concentration of 3.5% of total lipid. Upon addition of PEG-lipids, the liposomes should their size, effectively quenching further growth. RNA may then be added to the empty liposomes at an RNA to total lipid ratio of approximately 1:10 (wt:wt), followed by incubation for 30 minutes at 37° C. to form loaded LNPs. The mixture may be subsequently dialyzed overnight in PBS and filtered with a 0.45-μm syringe filter.

Spherical Nucleic Acid (SNA™) constructs and other particles (particularly gold particles) are also contemplated as a means to delivery CRISPR-Cas system to intended targets. Significant data show that AuraSense Therapeutics' Spherical Nucleic Acid (SNA™) constructs, based upon nucleic acid-functionalized gold particles, are useful.

Literature that may be employed in conjunction with herein teachings include: Cutler et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2011 133:9254-9257, Hao et al., Small. 2011 7:3158-3162, Zhang et al., ACS Nano. 2011 5:6962-6970, Cutler et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2012 134:1376-1391, Young et al., Nano Lett. 2012 12:3867-71, Zheng et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA. 2012 109:11975-80, Mirkin, Nanomedicine 2012 7:635-638 Zhang et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2012 134:16488-1691, Weintraub, Nature 2013 495:S14-S16, Choi et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA. 2013 110(19):7625-7630, Jensen et al., Sci. Transl. Med. 5, 209ra152 (2013) and Mirkin, et al., Small, 10:186-192.

Self-assembling particles with RNA may be constructed with polyethyleneimine (PEI) that is PEGylated with an Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) peptide ligand attached at the distal end of the polyethylene glycol (PEG). This system has been used, for example, as a means to target tumor neovasculature expressing integrins and deliver siRNA inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGF R2) expression and thereby achieve tumor angiogenesis (see, e.g., Schiffelers et al., Nucleic Acids Research, 2004, Vol. 32, No. 19). Nanoplexes may be prepared by mixing equal volumes of aqueous solutions of cationic polymer and nucleic acid to give a net molar excess of ionizable nitrogen (polymer) to phosphate (nucleic acid) over the range of 2 to 6. The electrostatic interactions between cationic polymers and nucleic acid resulted in the formation of polyplexes with average particle size distribution of about 100 nm, hence referred to here as nanoplexes. A dosage of about 100 to 200 mg of CRISPR Cas is envisioned for delivery in the self-assembling particles of Schiffelers et al.

The nanoplexes of Bartlett et al. (PNAS, Sep. 25, 2007,vol. 104, no. 39) may also be applied to the present invention. The nanoplexes of Bartlett et al. are prepared by mixing equal volumes of aqueous solutions of cationic polymer and nucleic acid to give a net molar excess of ionizable nitrogen (polymer) to phosphate (nucleic acid) over the range of 2 to 6. The electrostatic interactions between cationic polymers and nucleic acid resulted in the formation of polyplexes with average particle size distribution of about 100 nm, hence referred to here as nanoplexes. The DOTA-siRNA of Bartlett et al. was synthesized as follows: 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid mono(N-hydroxysuccinimide ester) (DOTA-NHSester) was ordered from Macrocyclics (Dallas, Tex.). The amine modified RNA sense strand with a 100-fold molar excess of DOTA-NHS-ester in carbonate buffer (pH 9) was added to a microcentrifuge tube. The contents were reacted by stirring for 4 h at room temperature. The DOTA-RNAsense conjugate was ethanol-precipitated, resuspended in water, and annealed to the unmodified antisense strand to yield DOTA-siRNA. All liquids were pretreated with Chelex-100 (Bio-Rad, Hercules, Calif.) to remove trace metal contaminants. Tf-targeted and nontargeted siRNA particles may be formed by using cyclodextrin-containing polycations. Typically, particles were formed in water at a charge ratio of 3 (+/−) and an siRNA concentration of 0.5 g/liter. One percent of the adamantane-PEG molecules on the surface of the targeted particles were modified with Tf (adamantane-PEG-Tf). The particles were suspended in a 5% (wt/vol) glucose carrier solution for injection.

Davis et al. (Nature, Vol 464, 15 Apr. 2010) conducts a RNA clinical trial that uses a targeted particle-delivery system (clinical trial registration number NCT00689065). Patients with solid cancers refractory to standard-of-care therapies are administered doses of targeted particles on days 1, 3, 8 and 10 of a 21-day cycle by a 30-min intravenous infusion. The particles consist of a synthetic delivery system containing: (1) a linear, cyclodextrin-based polymer (CDP), (2) a human transferrin protein (TF) targeting ligand displayed on the exterior of the particle to engage TF receptors (TFR) on the surface of the cancer cells, (3) a hydrophilic polymer (polyethylene glycol (PEG) used to promote particle stability in biological fluids), and (4) siRNA designed to reduce the expression of the RRM2 (sequence used in the clinic was previously denoted siR2B+5). The TFR has long been known to be upregulated in malignant cells, and RRM2 is an established anti-cancer target. These particles (clinical version denoted as CALAA-01) have been shown to be well tolerated in multi-dosing studies in non-human primates. Although a single patient with chronic myeloid leukaemia has been administered siRNA by liposomal delivery, Davis et al.'s clinical trial is the initial human trial to systemically deliver siRNA with a targeted delivery system and to treat patients with solid cancer. To ascertain whether the targeted delivery system can provide effective delivery of functional siRNA to human tumours, Davis et al. investigated biopsies from three patients from three different dosing cohorts; patients A, B and C, all of whom had metastatic melanoma and received CALAA-01 doses of 18, 24 and 30 mg m⁻² siRNA, respectively. Similar doses may also be contemplated for the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention. The delivery of the invention may be achieved with particles containing a linear, cyclodextrin-based polymer (CDP), a human transferrin protein (TF) targeting ligand displayed on the exterior of the particle to engage TF receptors (TFR) on the surface of the cancer cells and/or a hydrophilic polymer (for example, polyethylene glycol (PEG) used to promote particle stability in biological fluids).

In terms of this invention, it is preferred to have one or more components of CRISPR complex, e.g., CRISPR enzyme or mRNA or guide RNA delivered using particles or lipid envelopes. Other delivery systems or vectors are may be used in conjunction with the particle aspects of the invention.

In general, a “nanoparticle” refers to any particle having a diameter of less than 1000 nm. In certain preferred embodiments, nanoparticles of the invention have a greatest dimension (e.g., diameter) of 500 nm or less. In other preferred embodiments, nanoparticles of the invention have a greatest dimension ranging between 25 nm and 200 nm. In other preferred embodiments, nanoparticles of the invention have a greatest dimension of 100 nm or less. In other preferred embodiments, nanoparticles of the invention have a greatest dimension ranging between 35 nm and 60 nm.

Particles encompassed in the present invention may be provided in different forms, e.g., as solid particles (e.g., metal such as silver, gold, iron, titanium), non-metal, lipid-based solids, polymers), suspensions of particles, or combinations thereof. Metal, dielectric, and semiconductor particles may be prepared, as well as hybrid structures (e.g., core-shell particles). Particles made of semiconducting material may also be labeled quantum dots if they are small enough (typically sub 10 nm) that quantization of electronic energy levels occurs. Such nanoscale particles are used in biomedical applications as drug carriers or imaging agents and may be adapted for similar purposes in the present invention.

Semi-solid and soft particles have been manufactured, and are within the scope of the present invention. A prototype particle of semi-solid nature is the liposome. Various types of liposome particles are currently used clinically as delivery systems for anticancer drugs and vaccines. Particles with one half hydrophilic and the other half hydrophobic are termed Janus particles and are particularly effective for stabilizing emulsions. They can self-assemble at water/oil interfaces and act as solid surfactants.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,709,843, incorporated herein by reference, provides a drug delivery system for targeted delivery of therapeutic agent-containing particles to tissues, cells, and intracellular compartments. The invention provides targeted particles comprising polymer conjugated to a surfactant, hydrophilic polymer or lipid. U.S. Pat. No. 6,007,845, incorporated herein by reference, provides particles which have a core of a multiblock copolymer formed by covalently linking a multifunctional compound with one or more hydrophobic polymers and one or more hydrophilic polymers, and conatin a biologically active material. U.S. Pat. No. 5,855,913, incorporated herein by reference, provides a particulate composition having aerodynamically light particles having a tap density of less than 0.4 g/cm3 with a mean diameter of between 5 μm and 30 μm, incorporating a surfactant on the surface thereof for drug delivery to the pulmonary system. U.S. Pat. No. 5,985,309, incorporated herein by reference, provides particles incorporating a surfactant and/or a hydrophilic or hydrophobic complex of a positively or negatively charged therapeutic or diagnostic agent and a charged molecule of opposite charge for delivery to the pulmonary system. U.S. Pat. No. 5,543,158, incorporated herein by reference, provides biodegradable injectable particles having a biodegradable solid core containing a biologically active material and poly(alkylene glycol) moieties on the surface. WO2012135025 (also published as US20120251560), incorporated herein by reference, describes conjugated polyethyleneimine (PEI) polymers and conjugated aza-macrocycles (collectively referred to as “conjugated lipomer” or “lipomers”). In certain embodiments, it can envisioned that such conjugated lipomers can be used in the context of the CRISPR-Cas system to achieve in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo genomic perturbations to modify gene expression, including modulation of protein expression.

In one embodiment, the particle may be epoxide-modified lipid-polymer, advantageously 7C1 (see, e.g., James E. Dahlman and Carmen Barnes et al. Nature Nanotechnology (2014) published online 11 May 2014, doi:10.1038/nnano.2014.84). C71 was synthesized by reacting C15 epoxide-terminated lipids with PEI600 at a 14:1 molar ratio, and was formulated with C14PEG2000 to produce particles (diameter between 35 and 60 nm) that were stable in PBS solution for at least 40 days.

An epoxide-modified lipid-polymer may be utilized to deliver the CRISPR-Cas system of the present invention to pulmonary, cardiovascular or renal cells, however, one of skill in the art may adapt the system to deliver to other target organs. Dosage ranging from about 0.05 to about 0.6 mg/kg are envisioned. Dosages over several days or weeks are also envisioned, with a total dosage of about 2 mg/kg.

Exosomes

Exosomes are endogenous nano-vesicles that transport RNAs and proteins, and which can deliver RNA to the brain and other target organs. To reduce immunogenicity, Alvarez-Erviti et al. (2011, Nat Biotechnol 29: 341) used self-derived dendritic cells for exosome production. Targeting to the brain was achieved by engineering the dendritic cells to express Lamp2b, an exosomal membrane protein, fused to the neuron-specific RVG peptide. Purified exosomes were loaded with exogenous RNA by electroporation. Intravenously injected RVG-targeted exosomes delivered GAPDH siRNA specifically to neurons, microglia, oligodendrocytes in the brain, resulting in a specific gene knockdown. Pre-exposure to RVG exosomes did not attenuate knockdown, and non-specific uptake in other tissues was not observed. The therapeutic potential of exosome-mediated siRNA delivery was demonstrated by the strong mRNA (60%) and protein (62%) knockdown of BACE1, a therapeutic target in Alzheimer's disease.

To obtain a pool of immunologically inert exosomes, Alvarez-Erviti et al. harvested bone marrow from inbred C57BL/6 mice with a homogenous major histocompatibility complex (MHC) haplotype. As immature dendritic cells produce large quantities of exosomes devoid of T-cell activators such as MHC-II and CD86, Alvarez-Erviti et al. selected for dendritic cells with granulocyte/macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) for 7 d. Exosomes were purified from the culture supernatant the following day using well-established ultracentrifugation protocols. The exosomes produced were physically homogenous, with a size distribution peaking at 80 nm in diameter as determined by particle tracking analysis (NTA) and electron microscopy. Alvarez-Erviti et al. obtained 6-12 μg of exosomes (measured based on protein concentration) per 10⁶ cells.

Next, Alvarez-Erviti et al. investigated the possibility of loading modified exosomes with exogenous cargoes using electroporation protocols adapted for nanoscale applications. As electroporation for membrane particles at the nanometer scale is not well-characterized, nonspecific Cy5-labeled RNA was used for the empirical optimization of the electroporation protocol. The amount of encapsulated RNA was assayed after ultracentrifugation and lysis of exosomes. Electroporation at 400 V and 125 μF resulted in the greatest retention of RNA and was used for all subsequent experiments.

Alvarez-Erviti et al. administered 150 μg of each BACE1 siRNA encapsulated in 150 μg of RVG exosomes to normal C57BL/6 mice and compared the knockdown efficiency to four controls: untreated mice, mice injected with RVG exosomes only, mice injected with BACE1 siRNA complexed to an in vivo cationic liposome reagent and mice injected with BACE1 siRNA complexed to RVG-9R, the RVG peptide conjugated to 9 D-arginines that electrostatically binds to the siRNA. Cortical tissue samples were analyzed 3 d after administration and a significant protein knockdown (45%, P<0.05, versus 62%, P<0.01) in both siRNA-RVG-9R-treated and siRNARVG exosome-treated mice was observed, resulting from a significant decrease in BACE1 mRNA levels (66% [+ or −] 15%, P<0.001 and 61% [+ or −] 13% respectively, P<0.01). Moreover, Applicants demonstrated a significant decrease (55%, P<0.05) in the total [beta]-amyloid 1-42 levels, a main component of the amyloid plaques in Alzheimer's pathology, in the RVG-exosome-treated animals. The decrease observed was greater than the β-amyloid 1-40 decrease demonstrated in normal mice after intraventricular injection of BACE1 inhibitors. Alvarez-Erviti et al. carried out 5′-rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) on BACE1 cleavage product, which provided evidence of RNAi-mediated knockdown by the siRNA.

Finally, Alvarez-Erviti et al. investigated whether RNA-RVG exosomes induced immune responses in vivo by assessing IL-6, IP-10, TNFα and IFN-α serum concentrations. Following exosome treatment, nonsignificant changes in all cytokines were registered similar to siRNA-transfection reagent treatment in contrast to siRNA-RVG-9R, which potently stimulated IL-6 secretion, confirming the immunologically inert profile of the exosome treatment. Given that exosomes encapsulate only 20% of siRNA, delivery with RVG-exosome appears to be more efficient than RVG-9R delivery as comparable mRNA knockdown and greater protein knockdown was achieved with fivefold less siRNA without the corresponding level of immune stimulation. This experiment demonstrated the therapeutic potential of RVG-exosome technology, which is potentially suited for long-term silencing of genes related to neurodegenerative diseases. The exosome delivery system of Alvarez-Erviti et al. may be applied to deliver the CRISPR-Cas system of the present invention to therapeutic targets, especially neurodegenerative diseases. A dosage of about 100 to 1000 mg of CRISPR Cas encapsulated in about 100 to 1000 mg of RVG exosomes may be contemplated for the present invention.

El-Andaloussi et al. (Nature Protocols 7,2112-2126(2012)) discloses how exosomes derived from cultured cells can be harnessed for delivery of RNA in vitro and in vivo. This protocol first describes the generation of targeted exosomes through transfection of an expression vector, comprising an exosomal protein fused with a peptide ligand. Next, El-Andaloussi et al. explain how to purify and characterize exosomes from transfected cell supernatant. Next, El-Andaloussi et al. detail crucial steps for loading RNA into exosomes. Finally, El-Andaloussi et al. outline how to use exosomes to efficiently deliver RNA in vitro and in vivo in mouse brain. Examples of anticipated results in which exosome-mediated RNA delivery is evaluated by functional assays and imaging are also provided. The entire protocol takes ˜3 weeks. Delivery or administration according to the invention may be performed using exosomes produced from self-derived dendritic cells. From the herein teachings, this can be employed in the practice of the invention.

In another embodiment, the plasma exosomes of Wahlgren et al. (Nucleic Acids Research, 2012, Vol. 40, No. 17 e130) are contemplated. Exosomes are nano-sized vesicles (30-90 nm in size) produced by many cell types, including dendritic cells (DC), B cells, T cells, mast cells, epithelial cells and tumor cells. These vesicles are formed by inward budding of late endosomes and are then released to the extracellular environment upon fusion with the plasma membrane. Because exosomes naturally carry RNA between cells, this property may be useful in gene therapy, and from this disclosure can be employed in the practice of the instant invention.

Exosomes from plasma can be prepared by centrifugation of buffy coat at 900 g for 20 min to isolate the plasma followed by harvesting cell supernatants, centrifuging at 300 g for 10 min to eliminate cells and at 16 500 g for 30 min followed by filtration through a 0.22 mm filter. Exosomes are pelleted by ultracentrifugation at 120 000 g for 70 min. Chemical transfection of siRNA into exosomes is carried out according to the manufacturer's instructions in RNAi Human/Mouse Starter Kit (Quiagen, Hilden, Germany). siRNA is added to 100 ml PBS at a final concentration of 2 mmol/ml. After adding HiPerFect transfection reagent, the mixture is incubated for 10 min at RT. In order to remove the excess of micelles, the exosomes are re-isolated using aldehyde/sulfate latex beads. The chemical transfection of CRISPR Cas into exosomes may be conducted similarly to siRNA. The exosomes may be co-cultured with monocytes and lymphocytes isolated from the peripheral blood of healthy donors. Therefore, it may be contemplated that exosomes containing CRISPR Cas may be introduced to monocytes and lymphocytes of and autologously reintroduced into a human. Accordingly, delivery or administration according to the invention may be performed using plasma exosomes.

Liposomes

Delivery or administration according to the invention can be performed with liposomes. Liposomes are spherical vesicle structures composed of a uni- or multilamellar lipid bilayer surrounding internal aqueous compartments and a relatively impermeable outer lipophilic phospholipid bilayer. Liposomes have gained considerable attention as drug delivery carriers because they are biocompatible, nontoxic, can deliver both hydrophilic and lipophilic drug molecules, protect their cargo from degradation by plasma enzymes, and transport their load across biological membranes and the blood brain barrier (BBB) (see, e.g., Spuch and Navarro, Journal of Drug Delivery, vol. 2011, Article ID 469679, 12 pages, 2011. doi:10.1155/2011/469679 for review).

Liposomes can be made from several different types of lipids; however, phospholipids are most commonly used to generate liposomes as drug carriers. Although liposome formation is spontaneous when a lipid film is mixed with an aqueous solution, it can also be expedited by applying force in the form of shaking by using a homogenizer, sonicator, or an extrusion apparatus (see, e.g., Spuch and Navarro, Journal of Drug Delivery, vol. 2011, Article ID 469679, 12 pages, 2011. doi:10.1155/2011/469679 for review).

Several other additives may be added to liposomes in order to modify their structure and properties. For instance, either cholesterol or sphingomyelin may be added to the liposomal mixture in order to help stabilize the liposomal structure and to prevent the leakage of the liposomal inner cargo. Further, liposomes are prepared from hydrogenated egg phosphatidylcholine or egg phosphatidylcholine, cholesterol, and dicetyl phosphate, and their mean vesicle sizes were adjusted to about 50 and 100 nm. (see, e.g., Spuch and Navarro, Journal of Drug Delivery, vol. 2011, Article ID 469679, 12 pages, 2011. doi:10.1155/2011/469679 for review).

A liposome formulation may be mainly comprised of natural phospholipids and lipids such as 1,2-distearoryl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidyl choline (DSPC), sphingomyelin, egg phosphatidylcholines and monosialoganglioside. Since this formulation is made up of phospholipids only, liposomal formulations have encountered many challenges, one of the ones being the instability in plasma. Several attempts to overcome these challenges have been made, specifically in the manipulation of the lipid membrane. One of these attempts focused on the manipulation of cholesterol. Addition of cholesterol to conventional formulations reduces rapid release of the encapsulated bioactive compound into the plasma or 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DOPE) increases the stability (see, e.g., Spuch and Navarro, Journal of Drug Delivery, vol. 2011, Article ID 469679, 12 pages, 2011. doi:10.1155/2011/469679 for review).

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, Trojan Horse liposomes (also known as Molecular Trojan Horses) are desirable and protocols may be found at http://cshprotocols.cshlp.org/content/2010/4/pdb.prot5407.long. These particles allow delivery of a transgene to the entire brain after an intravascular injection. Without being bound by limitation, it is believed that neutral lipid particles with specific antibodies conjugated to surface allow crossing of the blood brain barrier via endocytosis. Applicant postulates utilizing Trojan Horse Liposomes to deliver the CRISPR family of nucleases to the brain via an intravascular injection, which would allow whole brain transgenic animals without the need for embryonic manipulation. About 1-5 g of DNA or RNA may be contemplated for in vivo administration in liposomes.

In another embodiment, the CRISPR Cas system may be administered in liposomes, such as a stable nucleic-acid-lipid particle (SNALP) (see, e.g., Morrissey et al., Nature Biotechnology, Vol. 23, No. 8, August 2005). Daily intravenous injections of about 1, 3 or 5 mg/kg/day of a specific CRISPR Cas targeted in a SNALP are contemplated. The daily treatment may be over about three days and then weekly for about five weeks. In another embodiment, a specific CRISPR Cas encapsulated SNALP) administered by intravenous injection to at doses of about 1 or 2.5 mg/kg are also contemplated (see, e.g., Zimmerman et al., Nature Letters, Vol. 441, 4 May 2006). The SNALP formulation may contain the lipids 3-N-[(wmethoxypoly(ethylene glycol) 2000) carbamoyl]-1,2-dimyristyloxy-propylamine (PEG-C-DMA), 1,2-dilinoleyloxy-N,N-dimethyl-3-aminopropane (DLinDMA), 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DSPC) and cholesterol, in a 2:40:10:48 molar percent ratio (see, e.g., Zimmerman et al., Nature Letters, Vol. 441, 4 May 2006).

In another embodiment, stable nucleic-acid-lipid particles (SNALPs) have proven to be effective delivery molecules to highly vascularized HepG2-derived liver tumors but not in poorly vascularized HCT-116 derived liver tumors (see, e.g., Li, Gene Therapy (2012) 19, 775-780). The SNALP liposomes may be prepared by formulating D-Lin-DMA and PEG-C-DMA with distearoylphosphatidylcholine (DSPC), Cholesterol and siRNA using a 25:1 lipid/siRNA ratio and a 48/40/10/2 molar ratio of Cholesterol/D-Lin-DMA/DSPC/PEG-C-DMA. The resulted SNALP liposomes are about 80-100 nm in size.

In yet another embodiment, a SNALP may comprise synthetic cholesterol (Sigma-Aldrich, St Louis, Mo., USA), dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (Avanti Polar Lipids, Alabaster, Ala., USA), 3-N-[(w-methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)2000)carbamoyl]-1,2-dimyrestyloxypropylamine, and cationic 1,2-dilinoleyloxy-3-N,Ndimethylaminopropane (see, e.g., Geisbert et al., Lancet 2010; 375: 1896-905). A dosage of about 2 mg/kg total CRISPR Cas per dose administered as, for example, a bolus intravenous infusion may be contemplated.

In yet another embodiment, a SNALP may comprise synthetic cholesterol (Sigma-Aldrich), 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DSPC; Avanti Polar Lipids Inc.), PEG-cDMA, and 1,2-dilinoleyloxy-3-(N;N-dimethyl)aminopropane (DLinDMA) (see, e.g., Judge, J. Clin. Invest. 119:661-673 (2009)). Formulations used for in vivo studies may comprise a final lipid/RNA mass ratio of about 9:1.

The safety profile of RNAi nanomedicines has been reviewed by Barros and Gollob of Alnylam Pharmaceuticals (see, e.g., Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews 64 (2012) 1730-1737). The stable nucleic acid lipid particle (SNALP) is comprised of four different lipids—an ionizable lipid (DLinDMA) that is cationic at low pH, a neutral helper lipid, cholesterol, and a diffusible polyethylene glycol (PEG)-lipid. The particle is approximately 80 nm in diameter and is charge-neutral at physiologic pH. During formulation, the ionizable lipid serves to condense lipid with the anionic RNA during particle formation. When positively charged under increasingly acidic endosomal conditions, the ionizable lipid also mediates the fusion of SNALP with the endosomal membrane enabling release of RNA into the cytoplasm. The PEG-lipid stabilizes the particle and reduces aggregation during formulation, and subsequently provides a neutral hydrophilic exterior that improves pharmacokinetic properties.

To date, two clinical programs have been initiated using SNALP formulations with RNA. Tekmira Pharmaceuticals recently completed a phase I single-dose study of SNALP-ApoB in adult volunteers with elevated LDL cholesterol. ApoB is predominantly expressed in the liver and jejunum and is essential for the assembly and secretion of VLDL and LDL. Seventeen subjects received a single dose of SNALP-ApoB (dose escalation across 7 dose levels). There was no evidence of liver toxicity (anticipated as the potential dose-limiting toxicity based on preclinical studies). One (of two) subjects at the highest dose experienced flu-like symptoms consistent with immune system stimulation, and the decision was made to conclude the trial.

Alnylam Pharmaceuticals has similarly advanced ALN-TTR01, which employs the SNALP technology described above and targets hepatocyte production of both mutant and wild-type TTR to treat TTR amyloidosis (ATTR). Three ATTR syndromes have been described: familial amyloidotic polyneuropathy (FAP) and familial amyloidotic cardiomyopathy (FAC) both caused by autosomal dominant mutations in TTR; and senile systemic amyloidosis (SSA) cause by wildtype TTR. A placebo-controlled, single dose-escalation phase I trial of ALN-TTR01 was recently completed in patients with ATTR. ALN-TTR01 was administered as a 15-minute IV infusion to 31 patients (23 with study drug and 8 with placebo) within a dose range of 0.01 to 1.0 mg/kg (based on siRNA). Treatment was well tolerated with no significant increases in liver function tests. Infusion-related reactions were noted in 3 of 23 patients at ≥0.4 mg/kg; all responded to slowing of the infusion rate and all continued on study. Minimal and transient elevations of serum cytokines IL-6, IP-10 and IL-1ra were noted in two patients at the highest dose of 1 mg/kg (as anticipated from preclinical and NHP studies). Lowering of serum TTR, the expected pharmacodynamics effect of ALN-TTR01, was observed at 1 mg/kg.

In yet another embodiment, a SNALP may be made by solubilizing a cationic lipid, DSPC, cholesterol and PEG-lipid e.g., in ethanol, e.g., at a molar ratio of 40:10:40:10, respectively (see, Semple et al., Nature Niotechnology, Volume 28 Number 2 Feb. 2010, pp. 172-177). The lipid mixture was added to an aqueous buffer (50 mM citrate, pH 4) with mixing to a final ethanol and lipid concentration of 30% (vol/vol) and 6.1 mg/ml, respectively, and allowed to equilibrate at 22° C. for 2 min before extrusion. The hydrated lipids were extruded through two stacked 80 nm pore-sized filters (Nuclepore) at 22° C. using a Lipex Extruder (Northern Lipids) until a vesicle diameter of 70-90 nm, as determined by dynamic light scattering analysis, was obtained. This generally required 1-3 passes. The siRNA (solubilized in a 50 mM citrate, pH 4 aqueous solution containing 30% ethanol) was added to the pre-equilibrated (35° C.) vesicles at a rate of ˜5 ml/min with mixing. After a final target siRNA/lipid ratio of 0.06 (wt/wt) was reached, the mixture was incubated for a further 30 min at 35° C. to allow vesicle reorganization and encapsulation of the siRNA. The ethanol was then removed and the external buffer replaced with PBS (155 mM NaCl, 3 mM Na₂HPO₄, 1 mM KH₂PO₄, pH 7.5) by either dialysis or tangential flow diafiltration. siRNA were encapsulated in SNALP using a controlled step-wise dilution method process. The lipid constituents of KC2-SNALP were DLin-KC2-DMA (cationic lipid), dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC; Avanti Polar Lipids), synthetic cholesterol (Sigma) and PEG-C-DMA used at a molar ratio of 57.1:7.1:34.3:1.4. Upon formation of the loaded particles, SNALP were dialyzed against PBS and filter sterilized through a 0.2 μm filter before use. Mean particle sizes were 75-85 nm and 90-95% of the siRNA was encapsulated within the lipid particles. The final siRNA/lipid ratio in formulations used for in vivo testing was ˜0.15 (wt/wt). LNP-siRNA systems containing Factor VII siRNA were diluted to the appropriate concentrations in sterile PBS immediately before use and the formulations were administered intravenously through the lateral tail vein in a total volume of 10 ml/kg. This method and these delivery systems may be extrapolated to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention.

Other Lipids

Other cationic lipids, such as amino lipid 2,2-dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-dioxolane (DLin-KC2-DMA) may be utilized to encapsulate CRISPR Cas or components thereof or nucleic acid molecule(s) coding therefor e.g., similar to SiRNA (see, e.g., Jayaraman, Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2012, 51, 8529-8533), and hence may be employed in the practice of the invention. A preformed vesicle with the following lipid composition may be contemplated: amino lipid, di stearoylphosphatidylcholine (DSPC), cholesterol and (R)-2,3-bis(octadecyloxy) propyl-1-(methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)2000)propylcarbamate (PEG-lipid) in the molar ratio 40/10/40/10, respectively, and a FVII siRNA/total lipid ratio of approximately 0.05 (w/w). To ensure a narrow particle size distribution in the range of 70-90 nm and a low polydispersity index of 0.11±0.04 (n=56), the particles may be extruded up to three times through 80 nm membranes prior to adding the CRISPR Cas RNA. Particles containing the highly potent amino lipid 16 may be used, in which the molar ratio of the four lipid components 16, DSPC, cholesterol and PEG-lipid (50/10/38.5/1.5) which may be further optimized to enhance in vivo activity.

Michael S D Kormann et al. (“Expression of therapeutic proteins after delivery of chemically modified mRNA in mice: Nature Biotechnology, Volume: 29, Pages: 154-157 (2011)) describes the use of lipid envelopes to deliver RNA. Use of lipid envelopes is also preferred in the present invention.

In another embodiment, lipids may be formulated with the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention to form lipid particles (LNPs). Lipids include, but are not limited to, DLin-KC2-DMA4, C12-200 and colipids disteroylphosphatidyl choline, cholesterol, and PEG-DMG may be formulated with CRISPR Cas instead of siRNA (see, e.g., Novobrantseva, Molecular Therapy—Nucleic Acids (2012) 1, e4; doi:10.1038/mtna.2011.3) using a spontaneous vesicle formation procedure. The component molar ratio may be about 50/10/38.5/1.5 (DLin-KC2-DMA or C12-200/disteroylphosphatidyl choline/cholesterol/PEG-DMG). The final lipid:siRNA weight ratio may be ˜12:1 and 9:1 in the case of DLin-KC2-DMA and C12-200 lipid particles (LNPs), respectively. The formulations may have mean particle diameters of ˜80 nm with >90% entrapment efficiency. A 3 mg/kg dose may be contemplated.

Tekmira has a portfolio of approximately 95 patent families, in the U.S. and abroad, that are directed to various aspects of LNPs and LNP formulations (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,982,027; 7,799,565; 8,058,069; 8,283,333; 7,901,708; 7,745,651; 7,803,397; 8,101,741; 8,188,263; 7,915,399; 8,236,943 and 7,838,658 and European Pat. Nos 1766035; 1519714; 1781593 and 1664316), all of which may be used and/or adapted to the present invention.

The CRISPR Cas system or components thereof or nucleic acid molecule(s) coding therefor may be delivered encapsulated in PLGA Microspheres such as that further in US published applications 20130252281 and 20130245107 and 20130244279 (assigned to Moderna Therapeutics) which relate to aspects of formulation of compositions comprising modified nucleic acid molecules which may encode a protein, a protein precursor, or a partially or fully processed form of the protein or a protein precursor. The formulation may have a molar ratio 50:10:38.5:1.5-3.0 (cationic lipid:fusogenic lipid:cholesterol:PEG lipid). The PEG lipid may be selected from, but is not limited to PEG-c-DOMG, PEG-DMG. The fusogenic lipid may be DSPC. See also, Schrum et al., Delivery and Formulation of Engineered Nucleic Acids, US published application 20120251618.

Nanomerics' technology addresses bioavailability challenges for a broad range of therapeutics, including low molecular weight hydrophobic drugs, peptides, and nucleic acid based therapeutics (plasmid, siRNA, miRNA). Specific administration routes for which the technology has demonstrated clear advantages include the oral route, transport across the blood-brain-barrier, delivery to solid tumours, as well as to the eye. See, e.g., Mazza et al., 2013, ACS Nano. 2013 Feb. 26; 7(2):1016-26; Uchegbu and Siew, 2013, J Pharm Sci. 102(2):305-10 and Lalatsa et al., 2012, J Control Release. 2012 Jul. 20; 161(2):523-36.

US Patent Publication No. 20050019923 describes cationic dendrimers for delivering bioactive molecules, such as polynucleotide molecules, peptides and polypeptides and/or pharmaceutical agents, to a mammalian body. The dendrimers are suitable for targeting the delivery of the bioactive molecules to, for example, the liver, spleen, lung, kidney or heart (or even the brain). Dendrimers are synthetic 3-dimensional macromolecules that are prepared in a step-wise fashion from simple branched monomer units, the nature and functionality of which can be easily controlled and varied. Dendrimers are synthesised from the repeated addition of building blocks to a multifunctional core (divergent approach to synthesis), or towards a multifunctional core (convergent approach to synthesis) and each addition of a 3-dimensional shell of building blocks leads to the formation of a higher generation of the dendrimers. Polypropylenimine dendrimers start from a diaminobutane core to which is added twice the number of amino groups by a double Michael addition of acrylonitrile to the primary amines followed by the hydrogenation of the nitriles. This results in a doubling of the amino groups. Polypropylenimine dendrimers contain 100% protonable nitrogens and up to 64 terminal amino groups (generation 5, DAB 64). Protonable groups are usually amine groups which are able to accept protons at neutral pH. The use of dendrimers as gene delivery agents has largely focused on the use of the polyamidoamine. and phosphorous containing compounds with a mixture of amine/amide or N—P(O₂)S as the conjugating units respectively with no work being reported on the use of the lower generation polypropylenimine dendrimers for gene delivery. Polypropylenimine dendrimers have also been studied as pH sensitive controlled release systems for drug delivery and for their encapsulation of guest molecules when chemically modified by peripheral amino acid groups. The cytotoxicity and interaction of polypropylenimine dendrimers with DNA as well as the transfection efficacy of DAB 64 has also been studied.

US Patent Publication No. 20050019923 is based upon the observation that, contrary to earlier reports, cationic dendrimers, such as polypropylenimine dendrimers, display suitable properties, such as specific targeting and low toxicity, for use in the targeted delivery of bioactive molecules, such as genetic material. In addition, derivatives of the cationic dendrimer also display suitable properties for the targeted delivery of bioactive molecules. See also, Bioactive Polymers, US published application 20080267903, which discloses “Various polymers, including cationic polyamine polymers and dendrimeric polymers, are shown to possess anti-proliferative activity, and may therefore be useful for treatment of disorders characterised by undesirable cellular proliferation such as neoplasms and tumours, inflammatory disorders (including autoimmune disorders), psoriasis and atherosclerosis. The polymers may be used alone as active agents, or as delivery vehicles for other therapeutic agents, such as drug molecules or nucleic acids for gene therapy. In such cases, the polymers' own intrinsic anti-tumour activity may complement the activity of the agent to be delivered.” The disclosures of these patent publications may be employed in conjunction with herein teachings for delivery of CRISPR Cas system(s) or component(s) thereof or nucleic acid molecule(s) coding therefor.

Supercharged Proteins

Supercharged proteins are a class of engineered or naturally occurring proteins with unusually high positive or negative net theoretical charge and may be employed in delivery of CRISPR Cas system(s) or component(s) thereof or nucleic acid molecule(s) coding therefor. Both supernegatively and superpositively charged proteins exhibit a remarkable ability to withstand thermally or chemically induced aggregation. Superpositively charged proteins are also able to penetrate mammalian cells. Associating cargo with these proteins, such as plasmid DNA, RNA, or other proteins, can enable the functional delivery of these macromolecules into mammalian cells both in vitro and in vivo. David Liu's lab reported the creation and characterization of supercharged proteins in 2007 (Lawrence et al., 2007, Journal of the American Chemical Society 129, 10110-10112).

The nonviral delivery of RNA and plasmid DNA into mammalian cells are valuable both for research and therapeutic applications (Akinc et al., 2010, Nat. Biotech. 26, 561-569). Purified+36 GFP protein (or other superpositively charged protein) is mixed with RNAs in the appropriate serum-free media and allowed to complex prior addition to cells. Inclusion of serum at this stage inhibits formation of the supercharged protein-RNA complexes and reduces the effectiveness of the treatment. The following protocol has been found to be effective for a variety of cell lines (McNaughton et al., 2009, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 106, 6111-6116) (However, pilot experiments varying the dose of protein and RNA should be performed to optimize the procedure for specific cell lines): (1) One day before treatment, plate 1×10⁵ cells per well in a 48-well plate. (2) On the day of treatment, dilute purified+36 GFP protein in serum free media to a final concentration 200 nM. Add RNA to a final concentration of 50 nM. Vortex to mix and incubate at room temperature for 10 min. (3) During incubation, aspirate media from cells and wash once with PBS. (4) Following incubation of +36 GFP and RNA, add the protein-RNA complexes to cells. (5) Incubate cells with complexes at 37° C. for 4 h. (6) Following incubation, aspirate the media and wash three times with 20 U/mL heparin PBS. Incubate cells with serum-containing media for a further 48 h or longer depending upon the assay for activity. (7) Analyze cells by immunoblot, qPCR, phenotypic assay, or other appropriate method.

David Liu's lab has further found +36 GFP to be an effective plasmid delivery reagent in a range of cells. As plasmid DNA is a larger cargo than siRNA, proportionately more +36 GFP protein is required to effectively complex plasmids. For effective plasmid delivery Applicants have developed a variant of +36 GFP bearing a C-terminal HA2 peptide tag, a known endosome-disrupting peptide derived from the influenza virus hemagglutinin protein. The following protocol has been effective in a variety of cells, but as above it is advised that plasmid DNA and supercharged protein doses be optimized for specific cell lines and delivery applications: (1) One day before treatment, plate 1×10⁵ per well in a 48-well plate. (2) On the day of treatment, dilute purified

36 GFP protein in serum free media to a final concentration 2 mM. Add 1 mg of plasmid DNA. Vortex to mix and incubate at room temperature for 10 min. (3) During incubation, aspirate media from cells and wash once with PBS. (4) Following incubation of

36 GFP and plasmid DNA, gently add the protein-DNA complexes to cells. (5) Incubate cells with complexes at 37 C for 4 h. (6) Following incubation, aspirate the media and wash with PBS. Incubate cells in serum-containing media and incubate for a further 24-48 h. (7) Analyze plasmid delivery (e.g., by plasmid-driven gene expression) as appropriate. See also, e.g., McNaughton et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 106, 6111-6116 (2009); Cronican et al., ACS Chemical Biology 5, 747-752 (2010); Cronican et al., Chemistry & Biology 18, 833-838 (2011); Thompson et al., Methods in Enzymology 503, 293-319 (2012); Thompson, D. B., et al., Chemistry & Biology 19 (7), 831-843 (2012). The methods of the super charged proteins may be used and/or adapted for delivery of the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention. These systems of Dr. Lui and documents herein in inconjunction with herein teachints can be employed in the delivery of CRISPR Cas system(s) or component(s) thereof or nucleic acid molecule(s) coding therefor.

Cell Penetrating Peptides (CPPs)

In yet another embodiment, cell penetrating peptides (CPPs) are contemplated for the delivery of the CRISPR Cas system. CPPs are short peptides that facilitate cellular uptake of various molecular cargo (from nanosize particles to small chemical molecules and large fragments of DNA). The term “cargo” as used herein includes but is not limited to the group consisting of therapeutic agents, diagnostic probes, peptides, nucleic acids, antisense oligonucleotides, plasmids, proteins, particles, liposomes, chromophores, small molecules and radioactive materials. In aspects of the invention, the cargo may also comprise any component of the CRISPR Cas system or the entire functional CRISPR Cas system. Aspects of the present invention further provide methods for delivering a desired cargo into a subject comprising: (a) preparing a complex comprising the cell penetrating peptide of the present invention and a desired cargo, and (b) orally, intraarticularly, intraperitoneally, intrathecally, intrarterially, intranasally, intraparenchymally, subcutaneously, intramuscularly, intravenously, dermally, intrarectally, or topically administering the complex to a subject. The cargo is associated with the peptides either through chemical linkage via covalent bonds or through non-covalent interactions.

The function of the CPPs are to deliver the cargo into cells, a process that commonly occurs through endocytosis with the cargo delivered to the endosomes of living mammalian cells. Cell-penetrating peptides are of different sizes, amino acid sequences, and charges but all CPPs have one distinct characteristic, which is the ability to translocate the plasma membrane and facilitate the delivery of various molecular cargoes to the cytoplasm or an organelle. CPP translocation may be classified into three main entry mechanisms: direct penetration in the membrane, endocytosis-mediated entry, and translocation through the formation of a transitory structure. CPPs have found numerous applications in medicine as drug delivery agents in the treatment of different diseases including cancer and virus inhibitors, as well as contrast agents for cell labeling. Examples of the latter include acting as a carrier for GFP, MRI contrast agents, or quantum dots. CPPs hold great potential as in vitro and in vivo delivery vectors for use in research and medicine. CPPs typically have an amino acid composition that either contains a high relative abundance of positively charged amino acids such as lysine or arginine or has sequences that contain an alternating pattern of polar/charged amino acids and non-polar, hydrophobic amino acids. These two types of structures are referred to as polycationic or amphipathic, respectively. A third class of CPPs are the hydrophobic peptides, containing only apolar residues, with low net charge or have hydrophobic amino acid groups that are crucial for cellular uptake. One of the initial CPPs discovered was the trans-activating transcriptional activator (Tat) from Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1 (HIV-1) which was found to be efficiently taken up from the surrounding media by numerous cell types in culture. Since then, the number of known CPPs has expanded considerably and small molecule synthetic analogues with more effective protein transduction properties have been generated. CPPs include but are not limited to Penetratin, Tat (48-60), Transportan, and (R-AhX-R)4 (Ahx=aminohexanoyl) (SEQ ID NO: 50).

U.S. Pat. No. 8,372,951, provides a CPP derived from eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) which exhibits highly cell-penetrating efficiency and low toxicity. Aspects of delivering the CPP with its cargo into a vertebrate subject are also provided. Further aspects of CPPs and their delivery are in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,575,305; 8,614,194 and 8,044,019. CPPs can be used to deliver the CRISPR-Cas system or components thereof. That CPPs can be employed to deliver the CRISPR-Cas system or components thereof is also provided in the manuscript “Gene disruption by cell-penetrating peptide-mediated delivery of Cas9 protein and guide RNA”, by Suresh Ramakrishna, Abu-Bonsrah Kwaku Dad, Jagadish Beloor, et al. Genome Res. 2014 Apr. 2. [Epub ahead of print], incorporated by reference in its entirety, wherein it is demonstrated that treatment with CPP-conjugated recombinant Cas9 protein and CPP-complexed guide RNAs lead to endogenous gene disruptions in human cell lines. In the paper the Cas9 protein was conjugated to CPP via a thioether bond, whereas the guide RNA was complexed with CPP, forming condensed, positively charged particles. It was shown that simultaneous and sequential treatment of human cells, including embryonic stem cells, dermal fibroblasts, HEK293T cells, HeLa cells, and embryonic carcinoma cells, with the modified Cas9 and guide RNA led to efficient gene disruptions with reduced off-target mutations relative to plasmid transfections.

Implantable Devices

In another embodiment, implantable devices are also contemplated for delivery of the CRISPR Cas system or component(s) thereof or nucleic acid molecule(s) coding therefor. For example, US Patent Publication 20110195123 discloses an implantable medical device which elutes a drug locally and in prolonged period is provided, including several types of such a device, the treatment modes of implementation and methods of implantation. The device comprising of polymeric substrate, such as a matrix for example, that is used as the device body, and drugs, and in some cases additional scaffolding materials, such as metals or additional polymers, and materials to enhance visibility and imaging. An implantable delivery device can be advantageous in providing release locally and over a prolonged period, where drug is released directly to the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the diseased area such as tumor, inflammation, degeneration or for symptomatic objectives, or to injured smooth muscle cells, or for prevention. One kind of drug is RNA, as disclosed above, and this system may be used/and or adapted to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention. The modes of implantation in some embodiments are existing implantation procedures that are developed and used today for other treatments, including brachytherapy and needle biopsy. In such cases the dimensions of the new implant described in this invention are similar to the original implant. Typically a few devices are implanted during the same treatment procedure.

As in US Patent Publication 20110195123, there is provided a drug delivery implantable or insertable system, including systems applicable to a cavity such as the abdominal cavity and/or any other type of administration in which the drug delivery system is not anchored or attached, comprising a biostable and/or degradable and/or bioabsorbable polymeric substrate, which may for example optionally be a matrix. It should be noted that the term “insertion” also includes implantation. The drug delivery system is preferably implemented as a “Loder” as in US Patent Publication 20110195123.

The polymer or plurality of polymers are biocompatible, incorporating an agent and/or plurality of agents, enabling the release of agent at a controlled rate, wherein the total volume of the polymeric substrate, such as a matrix for example, in some embodiments is optionally and preferably no greater than a maximum volume that permits a therapeutic level of the agent to be reached. As a non-limiting example, such a volume is preferably within the range of 0.1 m³ to 1000 mm³, as required by the volume for the agent load. The Loder may optionally be larger, for example when incorporated with a device whose size is determined by functionality, for example and without limitation, a knee joint, an intra-uterine or cervical ring and the like.

The drug delivery system (for delivering the composition) is designed in some embodiments to preferably employ degradable polymers, wherein the main release mechanism is bulk erosion; or in some embodiments, non degradable, or slowly degraded polymers are used, wherein the main release mechanism is diffusion rather than bulk erosion, so that the outer part functions as membrane, and its internal part functions as a drug reservoir, which practically is not affected by the surroundings for an extended period (for example from about a week to about a few months). Combinations of different polymers with different release mechanisms may also optionally be used. The concentration gradient at the surface is preferably maintained effectively constant during a significant period of the total drug releasing period, and therefore the diffusion rate is effectively constant (termed “zero mode” diffusion). By the term “constant” it is meant a diffusion rate that is preferably maintained above the lower threshold of therapeutic effectiveness, but which may still optionally feature an initial burst and/or may fluctuate, for example increasing and decreasing to a certain degree. The diffusion rate is preferably so maintained for a prolonged period, and it can be considered constant to a certain level to optimize the therapeutically effective period, for example the effective silencing period.

The drug delivery system optionally and preferably is designed to shield the nucleotide based therapeutic agent from degradation, whether chemical in nature or due to attack from enzymes and other factors in the body of the subject.

The drug delivery system as in US Patent Publication 20110195123 is optionally associated with sensing and/or activation appliances that are operated at and/or after implantation of the device, by non and/or minimally invasive methods of activation and/or acceleration/deceleration, for example optionally including but not limited to thermal heating and cooling, laser beams, and ultrasonic, including focused ultrasound and/or RF (radiofrequency) methods or devices.

According to some embodiments of US Patent Publication 20110195123, the site for local delivery may optionally include target sites characterized by high abnormal proliferation of cells, and suppressed apoptosis, including tumors, active and or chronic inflammation and infection including autoimmune diseases states, degenerating tissue including muscle and nervous tissue, chronic pain, degenerative sites, and location of bone fractures and other wound locations for enhancement of regeneration of tissue, and injured cardiac, smooth and striated muscle.

The site for implantation of the composition, or target site, preferably features a radius, area and/or volume that is sufficiently small for targeted local delivery. For example, the target site optionally has a diameter in a range of from about 0.1 mm to about 5 cm.

The location of the target site is preferably selected for maximum therapeutic efficacy. For example, the composition of the drug delivery system (optionally with a device for implantation as described above) is optionally and preferably implanted within or in the proximity of a tumor environment, or the blood supply associated thereof.

For example the composition (optionally with the device) is optionally implanted within or in the proximity to pancreas, prostate, breast, liver, via the nipple, within the vascular system and so forth.

The target location is optionally selected from the group consisting of (as non-limiting examples only, as optionally any site within the body may be suitable for implanting a Loder): 1. brain at degenerative sites like in Parkinson or Alzheimer disease at the basal ganglia, white and gray matter; 2. spine as in the case of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS); 3. uterine cervix to prevent HPV infection; 4. active and chronic inflammatory joints; 5. dermis as in the case of psoriasis; 6. sympathetic and sensoric nervous sites for analgesic effect; 7. Intra osseous implantation; 8. acute and chronic infection sites; 9. Intra vaginal; 10. Inner ear—auditory system, labyrinth of the inner ear, vestibular system; 11. Intra tracheal; 12. Intra-cardiac; coronary, epicardiac; 13. urinary bladder; 14. biliary system; 15. parenchymal tissue including and not limited to the kidney, liver, spleen; 16. lymph nodes; 17. salivary glands; 18. dental gums; 19. Intra-articular (into joints); 20. Intra-ocular; 21. Brain tissue; 22. Brain ventricles; 23. Cavities, including abdominal cavity (for example but without limitation, for ovary cancer); 24. Intra esophageal and 25. Intra rectal.

Optionally insertion of the system (for example a device containing the composition) is associated with injection of material to the ECM at the target site and the vicinity of that site to affect local pH and/or temperature and/or other biological factors affecting the diffusion of the drug and/or drug kinetics in the ECM, of the target site and the vicinity of such a site.

Optionally, according to some embodiments, the release of said agent could be associated with sensing and/or activation appliances that are operated prior and/or at and/or after insertion, by non and/or minimally invasive and/or else methods of activation and/or acceleration/deceleration, including laser beam, radiation, thermal heating and cooling, and ultrasonic, including focused ultrasound and/or RF (radiofrequency) methods or devices, and chemical activators.

According to other embodiments of US Patent Publication 20110195123, the drug preferably comprises a RNA, for example for localized cancer cases in breast, pancreas, brain, kidney, bladder, lung, and prostate as described below. Although exemplified with RNAi, many drugs are applicable to be encapsulated in Loder, and can be used in association with this invention, as long as such drugs can be encapsulated with the Loder substrate, such as a matrix for example, and this system may be used and/or adapted to deliver the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention.

As another example of a specific application, neuro and muscular degenerative diseases develop due to abnormal gene expression. Local delivery of RNAs may have therapeutic properties for interfering with such abnormal gene expression. Local delivery of anti apoptotic, anti inflammatory and anti degenerative drugs including small drugs and macromolecules may also optionally be therapeutic. In such cases the Loder is applied for prolonged release at constant rate and/or through a dedicated device that is implanted separately. All of this may be used and/or adapted to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention.

As yet another example of a specific application, psychiatric and cognitive disorders are treated with gene modifiers. Gene knockdown is a treatment option. Loders locally delivering agents to central nervous system sites are therapeutic options for psychiatric and cognitive disorders including but not limited to psychosis, bi-polar diseases, neurotic disorders and behavioral maladies. The Loders could also deliver locally drugs including small drugs and macromolecules upon implantation at specific brain sites. All of this may be used and/or adapted to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention.

As another example of a specific application, silencing of innate and/or adaptive immune mediators at local sites enables the prevention of organ transplant rejection. Local delivery of RNAs and immunomodulating reagents with the Loder implanted into the transplanted organ and/or the implanted site renders local immune suppression by repelling immune cells such as CD8 activated against the transplanted organ. All of this may be used/and or adapted to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention.

As another example of a specific application, vascular growth factors including VEGFs and angiogenin and others are essential for neovascularization. Local delivery of the factors, peptides, peptidomimetics, or suppressing their repressors is an important therapeutic modality; silencing the repressors and local delivery of the factors, peptides, macromolecules and small drugs stimulating angiogenesis with the Loder is therapeutic for peripheral, systemic and cardiac vascular disease.

The method of insertion, such as implantation, may optionally already be used for other types of tissue implantation and/or for insertions and/or for sampling tissues, optionally without modifications, or alternatively optionally only with non-major modifications in such methods. Such methods optionally include but are not limited to brachytherapy methods, biopsy, endoscopy with and/or without ultrasound, such as ERCP, stereotactic methods into the brain tissue, Laparoscopy, including implantation with a laparoscope into joints, abdominal organs, the bladder wall and body cavities.

Implantable device technology herein discussed can be employed with herein teachings and hence by this disclosure and the knowledge in the art, CRISPR-Cas system or components thereof or nucleic acid molecules thereof or encoding or providing components may be delivered via an implantable device.

Aerosol Delivery

Subjects treated for a lung disease may for example receive pharmaceutically effective amount of aerosolized AAV vector system per lung endobronchially delivered while spontaneously breathing. As such, aerosolized delivery is preferred for AAV delivery in general. An adenovirus or an AAV particle may be used for delivery. Suitable gene constructs, each operably linked to one or more regulatory sequences, may be cloned into the delivery vector. In this instance, the following constructs are provided as examples: Cbh or EF1a promoter for Cas (Cas9), U6 or H1 promoter for guide RNA): A preferred arrangement is to use a CFTRdelta508 targeting guide, a repair template for deltaF508 mutation and a codon optimized Cas9 enzyme, with optionally one or more nuclear localization signal or sequence(s) (NLS(s)), e.g., two (2) NLSs. Constructs without NLS are also envisaged.

CRISPR Enzyme mRNA and Guide RNA

CRISPR enzyme mRNA and guide RNA might also be delivered separately. CRISPR enzyme mRNA can be delivered prior to the guide RNA to give time for CRISPR enzyme to be expressed. CRISPR enzyme mRNA might be administered 1-12 hours (preferably around 2-6 hours) prior to the administration of guide RNA.

Alternatively, CRISPR enzyme mRNA and guide RNA can be administered together. Advantageously, a second booster dose of guide RNA can be administered 1-12 hours (preferably around 2-6 hours) after the initial administration of CRISPR enzyme mRNA+guide RNA.

Additional administrations of CRISPR enzyme mRNA and/or guide RNA might be useful to achieve the most efficient levels of genome modification. In some embodiments, phenotypic alteration is preferably the result of genome modification when a genetic disease is targeted, especially in methods of therapy and preferably where a repair template is provided to correct or alter the phenotype.

In some embodiments diseases that may be targeted include those concerned with disease-causing splice defects.

In some embodiments, cellular targets include Hemopoietic Stem/Progenitor Cells (CD34+); Human T cells; and Eye (retinal cells)—for example photoreceptor precursor cells.

In some embodiments Gene targets include: Human Beta Globin—HBB (for treating Sickle Cell Anemia, including by stimulating gene-conversion (using closely related HBD gene as an endogenous template)); CD3 (T-Cells); and CEP920—retina (eye).

In herein discussions concerning the target being associated with a mutation or with a disease condition, such mutation or disease condition can be, for instance Hemophilia B, SCID, SCID-X1, ADA-SCID, Hereditary tyrosinemia, Sickle Cell Anemia, β-thalassemia, X-linked CGD, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, Fanconi anemia, adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD), metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD), Usher Syndrome, Retinitis Pigmentosa, Leber's Congential Amaurosis, Cystic Fibrosis, HIV/AIDS, HSV-1, HSV-2; or more generally an Immunodeficiency disorder, Hematologic condition, or genetic lysosomal storage disease. The target can be associated with immunotherapy, such as, for example cancer immunotherapy.

In some embodiments delivery methods include: Cationic Lipid Mediated “direct” delivery of Enzyme-Guide complex (RiboNucleoProtein) and electroporation of plasmid DNA.

Inventive methods can further comprise delivery of templates, such as repair templates, which may be dsODN or ssODN, see below. Delivery of templates may be via the cotemporaneous or separate from delivery of any or all the CRISPR enzyme, guide, tracr mate or tracrRNA and via the same delivery mechanism or different. In some embodiments, it is preferred that the template is delivered together with the guide, tracr mate and/or tracrRNA and, preferably, also the CRISPR enzyme. An example may be an AAV vector where the CRISPR enzyme is SaCas9 (with the N580 mutation).

Inventive methods can further comprise: (a) delivering to the cell a double-stranded oligodeoxynucleotide (dsODN) comprising overhangs complimentary to the overhangs created by said double strand break, wherein said dsODN is integrated into the locus of interest; or —(b) delivering to the cell a single-stranded oligodeoxynucleotide (ssODN), wherein said ssODN acts as a template for homology directed repair of said double strand break. Inventive methods can be for the prevention or treatment of disease in an individual, optionally wherein said disease is caused by a defect in said locus of interest. Inventive methods can be conducted in vivo in the individual or ex vivo on a cell taken from the individual, optionally wherein said cell is returned to the individual.

Enzymes According to the Invention can be Applied in Optimized Functional CRISPR-Cas Systems which are of Interest for Functional Screening; SAM Screen

In an aspect the invention provides non-naturally occurring or engineered composition comprising a Type V, more particularly Cas9 CRISPR guide RNAs comprising a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell, wherein the guide RNA is modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to two or more adaptor proteins (e.g. aptamers), and wherein each adaptor protein is associated with one or more functional domains; or, wherein the guide RNA is modified to have at least one non-coding functional loop. In particular embodiments, the guide RNA is modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) 5′ of the direct repeat, within the direct repeat, or 3′ of the guide sequence. When there is more than one functional domain, the functional domains can be same or different, e.g., two of the same or two different activators or repressors. In an aspect the invention provides non-naturally occurring or engineered CRISPR-Cas complex composition comprising the guide RNA as herein-discussed and a CRISPR enzyme which is a Cas9 enzyme, wherein optionally the Cas9 enzyme comprises at least one mutation, such that the Cas9 enzyme has no more than 5% of the nuclease activity of the Cas9 enzyme not having the at least one mutation, and optionally one or more comprising at least one or more nuclear localization sequences. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed Cas9 CRISPR guide RNA or the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex including a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition comprising two or more adaptor proteins, wherein each protein is associated with one or more functional domains and wherein the adaptor protein binds to the distinct RNA sequence(s) inserted into the guide RNA. In particular embodiments, the guide RNA is additionally or alternatively modified so as to still ensure binding of the Cas9 CRISPR complex but to prevent cleavage by the Cas9 enzyme (as detailed elsewhere herein).

In an aspect the invention provides a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition comprising a guide RNA (gRNA) comprising a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell, a Cas9 enzyme comprising at least one or more nuclear localization sequences, wherein the Cas9 enzyme comprises at least one mutation, such that the Cas9 enzyme has no more than 5% of the nuclease activity of the Cas9 enzyme not having the at least one mutation, wherein the guide RNA is modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins, and wherein the adaptor protein is associated with one or more functional domains; or, wherein the guide RNA is modified to have at least one non-coding functional loop, and wherein the composition comprises two or more adaptor proteins, wherein the each protein is associated with one or more functional domains. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the Cas9 enzyme has a diminished nuclease activity of at least 97%, or 100% as compared with the Cas9 enzyme not having the at least one mutation. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the Cas9 enzyme comprises two or more mutations. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the Cas9 enzyme is associated with one or more functional domains. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the two or more functional domains associated with the adaptor protein are each a heterologous functional domain. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the one or more functional domains associated with the Cas9 enzyme are each a heterologous functional domain. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the adaptor protein is a fusion protein comprising the functional domain, the fusion protein optionally comprising a linker between the adaptor protein and the functional domain, the linker optionally including a GlySer linker. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the gRNA is not modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to the two or more adaptor proteins. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the one or more functional domains associated with the adaptor protein is a transcriptional activation domain. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the one or more functional domains associated with the Cas9 enzyme is a transcriptional activation domain. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the one or more functional domains associated with the adaptor protein is a transcriptional activation domain comprising VP64, p65, MyoD1, HSF1, RTA or SET7/9. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the one or more functional domains associated with the Cas9 enzyme is a transcriptional activation domain comprises VP64, p65, MyoD1, HSF1, RTA or SET7/9. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the one or more functional domains associated with the adaptor protein is a transcriptional repressor domain. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the one or more functional domains associated with the Cas9 enzyme is a transcriptional repressor domain. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the transcriptional repressor domain is a KRAB domain. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the transcriptional repressor domain is a NuE domain, NcoR domain, SID domain or a SID4× domain. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein at least one of the one or more functional domains associated with the adaptor protein have one or more activities comprising methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, DNA integration activity RNA cleavage activity, DNA cleavage activity or nucleic acid binding activity. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the one or more functional domains associated with the Cas9 enzyme have one or more activities comprising methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, DNA integration activity RNA cleavage activity, DNA cleavage activity, nucleic acid binding activity, or molecular switch activity or chemical inducibility or light inducibility. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the DNA cleavage activity is due to a Fok1 nuclease. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the one or more functional domains is attached to the Cas9 enzyme so that upon binding to the gRNA and target the functional domain is in a spatial orientation allowing for the functional domain to function in its attributed function; or, optionally, wherein the one or more functional domains is attached to the Cas9 enzyme via a linker, optionally a GlySer linker. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the gRNA is modified so that, after gRNA binds the adaptor protein and further binds to the Cas9 enzyme and target, the functional domain is in a spatial orientation allowing for the functional domain to function in its attributed function. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the one or more functional domains associated with the Cas9 enzyme is attached to the RuvC domain of Cas9. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the direct repeat of the guide RNA is modified by the insertion of the distinct RNA sequence(s). In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins is an aptamer sequence. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the aptamer sequence is two or more aptamer sequences specific to the same adaptor protein. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the aptamer sequence is two or more aptamer sequences specific to different adaptor protein. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the adaptor protein comprises MS2, PP7, Qβ, F2, GA, fr, JP501, M12, R17, BZ13, JP34, JP500, KU1, M11, MX1, TW18, VK, SP, FI, ID2, NL95, TW19, AP205, ϕCb5, ϕCb8r, ϕCb12r, ϕCb23r, 7s, PRR1. Accordingly, in particular embodiments, the aptamer is selected from a binding protein specifically binding any one of the adaptor proteins listed above. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the cell is a eukaryotic cell. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the eukaryotic cell is a mammalian cell, a plant cell or a yeast cell, whereby the mammalian cell is optionally a mouse cell. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the mammalian cell is a human cell. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein a first adaptor protein is associated with a p65 domain and a second adaptor protein is associated with a HSF1 domain. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition, wherein the composition comprises a CRISPR-Cas complex having at least three functional domains, at least one of which is associated with the Cas9 enzyme and at least two of which are associated with gRNA.

In an aspect the invention provides a herein above-discussed composition of wherein there is more than one gRNA, and the gRNAs target different sequences whereby when the composition is employed, there is multiplexing. In an aspect the invention provides a composition wherein there is more than one gRNA modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins.

In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition wherein one or more adaptor proteins associated with one or more functional domains is present and bound to the distinct RNA sequence(s) inserted into the guide RNA.

In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition wherein the target sequence(s) are non-coding or regulatory sequences. The regulatory sequences can be promoter, enhancer or silencer sequence(s).

In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed composition wherein the guide RNA is modified to have at least one non-coding functional loop; e.g., wherein the at least one non-coding functional loop is repressive; for instance, wherein at least one non-coding functional loop comprises Alu.

In an aspect the invention provides a method for introducing a genomic locus event comprising the administration to a host or expression in a host in vivo of one or more of the compositions as herein-discussed. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed method, wherein the genomic locus event comprises affecting gene activation, gene inhibition, or cleavage in the locus.

In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed method, wherein the host is a eukaryotic cell. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed method, wherein the host is a mammalian cell, optionally a mouse cell or a plant cell or yeast cell. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed method, wherein the host is a non-human eukaryote. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed method, wherein the non-human eukaryote is a non-human mammal. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed method, wherein the non-human mammal is a mouse.

In an aspect the invention provides a method of modifying a genomic locus of interest to change gene expression in a cell by introducing or expressing in a cell the composition as herein-discussed. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed method comprising the delivery of the composition or nucleic acid molecule(s) coding therefor, wherein said nucleic acid molecule(s) are operatively linked to regulatory sequence(s) and expressed in vivo. In an aspect the invention provides a herein-discussed method wherein the expression in vivo is via a lentivirus, an adenovirus, or an AAV.

In an aspect the invention provides a mammalian cell line of cells as herein-discussed, wherein the cell line is, optionally, a human cell line or a mouse cell line. In an aspect the invention provides a transgenic mammalian model, optionally a mouse, wherein the model has been transformed with a herein-discussed composition or is a progeny of said transformant.

In an aspect the invention provides a nucleic acid molecule(s) encoding guide RNA or the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex or the composition as herein-discussed. In an aspect the invention provides a vector comprising: a nucleic acid molecule encoding a guide RNA (gRNA) comprising a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell, wherein the direct repeat of the gRNA is modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to two or more adaptor proteins, and wherein each adaptor protein is associated with one or more functional domains; or, wherein the gRNA is modified to have at least one non-coding functional loop. In an aspect the invention provides vector(s) comprising nucleic acid molecule(s) encoding: non-naturally occurring or engineered CRISPR-Cas complex composition comprising the gRNA herein-discussed, and a Cas9 enzyme, wherein optionally the Cas9 enzyme comprises at least one mutation, such that the Cas9 enzyme has no more than 5% of the nuclease activity of the Cas9 enzyme not having the at least one mutation, and optionally one or more comprising at least one or more nuclear localization sequences. In an aspect a vector can further comprise regulatory element(s) operable in a eukaryotic cell operably linked to the nucleic acid molecule encoding the guide RNA (gRNA) and/or the nucleic acid molecule encoding the Cas9 enzyme and/or the optional nuclear localization sequence(s).

In one aspect, the invention provides a kit comprising one or more of the components described hereinabove. In some embodiments, the kit comprises a vector system as described above and instructions for using the kit.

In an aspect the invention provides a method of screening for gain of function (GOF) or loss of function (LOF) or for screen non-coding RNAs or potential regulatory regions (e.g. enhancers, repressors) comprising the cell line of as herein-discussed or cells of the model herein-discussed containing or expressing Cas9 and introducing a composition as herein-discussed into cells of the cell line or model, whereby the gRNA includes either an activator or a repressor, and monitoring for GOF or LOF respectively as to those cells as to which the introduced gRNA includes an activator or as to those cells as to which the introduced gRNA includes a repressor. The screening of the instant invention is referred to as a SAM screen.

In an aspect the invention provides a Cas9 CRISPR Cas complex comprising a Cas9 enzyme and a guide RNA (gRNA), wherein the Cas9 enzyme comprises at least one mutation, such that the Cas9 enzyme has no more than 5% of the nuclease activity of the Cas9 enzyme not having the at least one mutation and, optional, at least one or more nuclear localization sequences; the guide RNA (gRNA) comprises a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell; and wherein the gRNA is modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins, and wherein the adaptor protein is associated with two or more functional domains, or, wherein the gRNA is modified to have at least one non-coding functional loop; or the Cas9 enzyme is associated with one or more functional domains and the gRNA is modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins, and wherein the adaptor protein is associated with two or more functional domains, or, wherein the gRNA is modified to have at least one non-coding functional loop.

In an aspect the invention provides a genome wide library comprising a plurality of Cas9 guide RNAs (gRNAs) comprising guide sequences, each of which is capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell and whereby the library is capable of targeting a plurality of target sequences in a plurality of genomic loci in a population of eukaryotic cells, wherein each gRNA is modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that binds to one or more or two or more adaptor proteins, and wherein the adaptor protein is associated with one or more functional domains; or, wherein the gRNA is modified to have at least one non-coding functional loop. And when there is more than one functional domain, the functional domains can be same or different, e.g., two of the same or two different activators or repressors. In an aspect the invention provides a library of non-naturally occurring or engineered CRISPR-Cas complexes composition(s) comprising gRNAs of this invention and a Cas9 enzyme, wherein optionally the Cas9 enzyme comprises at least one mutation, such that the Cas9 enzyme has no more than 5% of the nuclease activity of the Cas9 enzyme not having the at least one mutation, and optionally one or more comprising at least one or more nuclear localization sequences. In an aspect the invention provides a gRNA(s) or Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex(es) of the invention including a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition comprising one or two or more adaptor proteins, wherein each protein is associated with one or more functional domains and wherein the adaptor protein binds to the distinct RNA sequence(s) inserted into the at least one loop of the gRNA.

In an aspect the invention provides a library of non-naturally occurring or engineered compositions, each comprising a Cas9 CRISPR guide RNA (gRNA) comprising a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell, a Cas9 enzyme comprising at least one or more nuclear localization sequences, wherein the Cas9 enzyme comprises at least one mutation, such that the Cas9 enzyme has no more than 5% of the nuclease activity of the Cas9 enzyme not having the at least one mutation, wherein at least one loop of the gRNA is modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins, and wherein the adaptor protein is associated with one or more functional domains, wherein the composition comprises one or more or two or more adaptor proteins, wherein the each protein is associated with one or more functional domains, and wherein the gRNAs comprise a genome wide library comprising a plurality of Cas9 guide RNAs (gRNAs). In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein the Cas9 enzyme has a diminished nuclease activity of at least 97%, or 100% as compare with the Cas9 enzyme not having the at least one mutation. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein the Cas9 enzyme comprises two or more mutations. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed wherein the Cas9 enzyme comprises two or more mutations. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein the Cas9 enzyme is associated with one or more functional domains. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein the one or two or more functional domains associated with the adaptor protein is a heterologous functional domain. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein the one or more functional domains associated with the Cas9 enzyme is a heterologous functional domain. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein the adaptor protein is a fusion protein comprising the functional domain. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the gRNA is not modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to the one or two or more adaptor proteins. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein the one or two or more functional domains associated with the adaptor protein is a transcriptional activation domain. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the one or two or more functional domains associated with the Cas9 enzyme is a transcriptional activation domain. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein the one or two or more functional domains associated with the adaptor protein is a transcriptional activation domain comprising VP64, p65, MyoD1 or HSF1. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the one or more functional domains associated with the Cas9 enzyme is a transcriptional activation domain comprises VP64, p65, MyoD1 or HSF1. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein the one or two or more functional domains associated with the adaptor protein is a transcriptional repressor domain. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein the one or more functional domains associated with the Cas9 enzyme is a transcriptional repressor domain. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein the transcriptional repressor domain is a KRAB domain. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein the transcriptional repressor domain is a SID domain or a SID4× domain. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein at least one of the one or two or more functional domains associated with the adaptor protein have one or more activities comprising methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, RNA cleavage activity, DNA cleavage activity or nucleic acid binding activity. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein the one or more functional domains associated with the Cas9 enzyme have one or more activities comprising methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, RNA cleavage activity, DNA cleavage activity, nucleic acid binding activity, or molecular switch activity or chemical inducibility or light inducibility. In an aspect the invention provides a library of as herein-discussed, wherein the DNA cleavage activity is a Fok1 nuclease. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein the one or more functional domains is attached to the Cas9 enzyme so that upon binding to the gRNA and target the functional domain is in a spatial orientation allowing for the functional domain to function in its attributed function. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein the gRNA is modified so that, after gRNA binds the adapter protein and further binds to the Cas9 enzyme and target, the functional domain is in a spatial orientation allowing for the functional domain to function in its attributed function. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein the one or more functional domains associated with the Cas9 enzyme is attached to the N terminus of the Cas9 enzyme. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein-discussed, wherein the one or more functional domains associated with the Cas9 enzyme is attached to the RuvC of FnCas9 protein or any ortholog corresponding to these domains. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the direct repeat of the gRNA is modified by the insertion of the distinct RNA sequence(s). In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins is an aptamer sequence. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the aptamer sequence is two or more aptamer sequences specific to the same adaptor protein. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the aptamer sequence is two or more aptamer sequences specific to different adaptor protein. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the adaptor protein comprises MS2, PP7, Qβ, F2, GA, fr, JP501, M12, R17, BZ13, JP34, JP500, KU1, M11, MX1, TW18, VK, SP, FI, ID2, NL95, TW19, AP205, ϕCb5, ϕCb8r, ϕCb12r, ϕCb23r, 7s, PRR1. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the cell population of cells is a population of eukaryotic cells. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the eukaryotic cell is a mammalian cell, a plant cell or a yeast cell. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the mammalian cell is a human cell. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the population of cells is a population of embryonic stem (ES) cells. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the target sequence in the genomic locus is a non-coding sequence. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein gene function of one or more gene products is altered by said targeting; or wherein as to gene function there is gain of function; or wherein as to gene function there is change of function; or wherein as to gene function there is reduced function; or wherein the screen is for non-coding RNAs or potential regulatory regions (e.g. enhancers, repressors). In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein said targeting results in a knockout of gene function. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the targeting is of about 100 or more sequences. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the targeting is of about 1000 or more sequences. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the targeting is of about 20,000 or more sequences. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the targeting is of the entire genome. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the targeting is of a panel of target sequences focused on a relevant or desirable pathway. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the pathway is an immune pathway. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the pathway is a cell division pathway. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the alteration of gene function comprises: introducing into each cell in the population of cells a vector system of one or more vectors comprising an engineered, non-naturally occurring Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system comprising I. a Cas9 protein, and II. one or more type Cas9 guide RNAs, wherein components I and II may be same or on different vectors of the system, integrating components I and II into each cell, wherein the guide sequence targets a unique gene in each cell, wherein the Cas9 protein is operably linked to a regulatory element, wherein when transcribed, the guide RNA comprising the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system to a target sequence in the genomic loci of the unique gene, inducing cleavage of the genomic loci by the Cas9 protein, and confirming different mutations in a plurality of unique genes in each cell of the population of cells thereby generating a mutant cell library. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the one or more vectors are plasmid vectors. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the regulatory element is an inducible promoter. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the inducible promoter is a doxycycline inducible promoter. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed wherein the confirming of different mutations is by whole exome sequencing. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the mutation is achieved in 100 or more unique genes. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the mutation is achieved in 1000 or more unique genes. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the mutation is achieved in 20,000 or more unique genes. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the mutation is achieved in the entire genome. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the alteration of gene function is achieved in a plurality of unique genes which function in a particular physiological pathway or condition. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the pathway or condition is an immune pathway or condition. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the pathway or condition is a cell division pathway or condition. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein a first adaptor protein is associated with a p65 domain and a second adaptor protein is associated with a HSF1 domain. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein each Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complex has at least three functional domains, at least one of which is associated with the Cas9 enzyme and at least two of which are associated with gRNA. In an aspect the invention provides a library as herein discussed, wherein the alteration in gene function is a knockout mutation.

In an aspect the invention provides a method for functional screening genes of a genome in a pool of cells ex vivo or in vivo comprising the administration or expression of a library comprising a plurality of Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system guide RNAs (gRNAs) and wherein the screening further comprises use of a Cas9 enzyme, wherein the CRISPR complex is modified to comprise a heterologous functional domain. In an aspect the invention provides a method for screening a genome comprising the administration to a host or expression in a host in vivo of a library. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed further comprising an activator administered to the host or expressed in the host. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed wherein the activator is attached to a Cas9 enzyme. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed wherein the activator is attached to the N terminus or the C terminus of the Cas9 enzyme. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed wherein the activator is attached to the Cas9 CRISPR gRNA direct repeat. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed further comprising a repressor administered to the host or expressed in the host. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed, wherein the screening comprises affecting and detecting gene activation, gene inhibition, or cleavage in the locus. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed, wherein the host is a eukaryotic cell. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed, wherein the host is a mammalian cell, a yeast cell or a plant cell. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed, wherein the host is a non-human eukaryote. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed, wherein the non-human eukaryote is a non-human mammal. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed, wherein the non-human mammal is a mouse. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed comprising the delivery of the Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complexes or component(s) thereof or nucleic acid molecule(s) coding therefor, wherein said nucleic acid molecule(s) are operatively linked to regulatory sequence(s) and expressed in vivo. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed wherein the expressing in vivo is via a lentivirus, an adenovirus, or an AAV. In an aspect the invention provides a method as herein discussed wherein the delivery is via a particle, a nanoparticle, a lipid or a cell penetrating peptide (CPP).

In an aspect the invention provides a pair of Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complexes, each comprising a Cas9 guide RNA (gRNA) comprising a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest in a cell, wherein said gRNA is modified by the insertion of distinct RNA sequence(s) that bind to one or more adaptor proteins, and wherein the adaptor protein is associated with one or more functional domains, wherein each gRNA of each Cas9 CRISPR-Cas comprises a functional domain having a DNA cleavage activity. In an aspect the invention provides a paired Cas9 CRISPR-Cas complexes as herein-discussed, wherein the DNA cleavage activity is due to a Fok1 nuclease.

In particular embodiments of the methods and compositions herein, use is made of a nucleotide sequence encoding the Cas9 protein which is codon optimized for expression in a Eukaryotic cell. In a preferred embodiment the Eukaryotic cell is a mammalian cell and in a more preferred embodiment the mammalian cell is a human cell, a yeast cell or a plant cell. Alternatively, the Eukaryotic cell is a plant cell. In a further embodiment of the invention, the expression of the gene product is decreased.

In some embodiments of the methods and compositions provided herein, the Cas9 enzyme is Acidaminococcus sp. BV3L6, Lachnospiraceae bacterium MA2020 or Francisella tularensis 1 Novicida Cas9, and may include mutated Cas9 derived from these organisms. The enzyme may be a Cas9 homolog or ortholog.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method of generating a model eukaryotic cell comprising a gene with modified expression. In some embodiments, a disease gene is any gene associated an increase in the risk of having or developing a disease. In some embodiments, the method comprises (a) introducing one or more vectors described herein above into a eukaryotic cell, and (b) allowing a CRISPR complex to bind to a target polynucleotide so as to modify a genetic locus, thereby generating a model eukaryotic cell comprising a modified genetic locus.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method for developing a biologically active agent that modulates a cell signaling event associated with a disease gene. In some embodiments, a disease gene is any gene associated an increase in the risk of having or developing a disease. In some embodiments, the method comprises (a) contacting a test compound with a model cell of any one of the above-described embodiments; and (b) detecting a change in a readout that is indicative of a reduction or an augmentation of a cell signaling event associated with said mutation in said disease gene, thereby developing said biologically active agent that modulates said cell signaling event associated with said disease gene.

The invention comprehends optimized functional CRISPR-Cas Cas9 enzyme systems, especially in combination with the present modified guides and also where the Cas9 enzyme is also associated with a functional domain. In particular the Cas9 enzyme comprises one or more mutations that converts it to a DNA binding protein to which functional domains exhibiting a function of interest may be recruited or appended or inserted or attached. In certain embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme comprises one or more mutations and/or one or more mutations is in a RuvC1 domain of the Cas9 enzyme or is a mutation as otherwise as discussed herein. In some embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme has one or more mutations in a catalytic domain, wherein when transcribed, the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR complex to the target sequence, and wherein the enzyme further comprises a functional domain. In some embodiments, a mutation at E1006 according to FnCas9 protein is preferred.

The structural information provided herein allows for interrogation of guide RNA interaction with the target DNA and the Cas9 enzyme permitting engineering or alteration of guide RNA structure to optimize functionality of the entire Cas9 CRISPR-Cas system. For example, loops of the guide RNA may be extended, without colliding with the Cas9 protein by the insertion of adaptor proteins that can bind to RNA. These adaptor proteins can further recruit effector proteins or fusions which comprise one or more functional domains.

In some preferred embodiments, the functional domain is a transcriptional activation domain, preferably VP64. In some embodiments, the functional domain is a transcription repression domain, preferably KRAB. In some embodiments, the transcription repression domain is SID, or concatemers of SID (e.g. SID4×). In some embodiments, the functional domain is an epigenetic modifying domain, such that an epigenetic modifying enzyme is provided. In some embodiments, the functional domain is an activation domain, which may be the P65 activation domain.

An aspect of the invention is that the above elements are comprised in a single composition or comprised in individual compositions. These compositions may advantageously be applied to a host to elicit a functional effect on the genomic level.

In general, the guide RNA are modified in a manner that provides specific binding sites (e.g. aptamers) for adapter proteins comprising one or more functional domains (e.g. via fusion protein) to bind to. The modified guide RNA are modified such that once the guide RNA forms a CRISPR complex (i.e. Cas9 enzyme binding to guide RNA and target) the adapter proteins bind and, the functional domain on the adapter protein is positioned in a spatial orientation which is advantageous for the attributed function to be effective. For example, if the functional domain is a transcription activator (e.g. VP64 or p65), the transcription activator is placed in a spatial orientation which allows it to affect the transcription of the target. Likewise, a transcription repressor will be advantageously positioned to affect the transcription of the target and a nuclease (e.g. Fok1) will be advantageously positioned to cleave or partially cleave the target.

The skilled person will understand that modifications to the guide RNA which allow for binding of the adapter+functional domain but not proper positioning of the adapter+functional domain (e.g. due to steric hindrance within the three dimensional structure of the CRISPR complex) are modifications which are not intended. The one or more modified guide RNA may be modified, by introduction of a distinct RNA sequence(s) 5′ of the direct repeat, within the direct repeat, or 3′ of the guide sequence.

As explained herein the functional domains may be, for example, one or more domains from the group consisting of methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, RNA cleavage activity, DNA cleavage activity, nucleic acid binding activity, and molecular switches (e.g. light inducible). In some cases it is advantageous that additionally at least one NLS is provided. In some instances, it is advantageous to position the NLS at the N terminus. When more than one functional domain is included, the functional domains may be the same or different.

The guide RNA may be designed to include multiple binding recognition sites (e.g. aptamers) specific to the same or different adapter protein. The guide RNA of a Cas9 enzyme is characterized in that it typically is 37-43 nucleotides and in that it contains only one stem loop. The guide RNA may be designed to bind to the promoter region −1000-+1 nucleic acids upstream of the transcription start site (i.e. TSS), preferably −200 nucleic acids. This positioning improves functional domains which affect gene activation (e.g. transcription activators) or gene inhibition (e.g. transcription repressors). The modified guide RNA may be one or more modified guide RNAs targeted to one or more target loci (e.g. at least 1 guide RNA, at least 2 guide RNA, at least 5 guide RNA, at least 10 guide RNA, at least 20 guide RNA, at least 30 guide RNA, at least 50 guide RNA) comprised in a composition.

Further, the Cas9 enzyme with diminished nuclease activity is most effective when the nuclease activity is inactivated (e.g. nuclease inactivation of at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 97%, or 100% as compared with the wild type enzyme; or to put in another way, Cas9 enzyme having advantageously about 0% of the nuclease activity of the non-mutated or wild type Cas9 enzyme, or no more than about 3% or about 5% or about 10% of the nuclease activity of the non-mutated or wild type Cas9 enzyme). This is possible by introducing mutations into the RuvC nuclease domains of the FnCas9 or an ortholog thereof. For example utilizing mutations in a residue selected from the group consisting of D917A, E1006A, E1028A, D1227A, D1255A or N1257 as in FnCas9 and more preferably introducing one or more of the mutations selected from the group consisting of locations D917A, E1006A, E1028A, D1227A, D1255A, N1257A, D917A, E1006A, E1028A, D1227A, D1255A and N1257 of FnCas9 or a corresponding ortholog. In particular embodiments, the mutations are D917A with E1006A in FnCas9.

The inactivated Cas9 enzyme may have associated (e.g. via fusion protein) one or more functional domains, like for example as described herein for the modified guide RNA adaptor proteins, including for example, one or more domains from the group consisting of methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, RNA cleavage activity, DNA cleavage activity, nucleic acid binding activity, and molecular switches (e.g. light inducible). Preferred domains are Fok1, VP64, P65, HSF1, MyoD1. In the event that Fok1 is provided, it is advantageous that multiple Fok1 functional domains are provided to allow for a functional dimer and that guide RNAs are designed to provide proper spacing for functional use (Fok1) as specifically described in Tsai et al. Nature Biotechnology, Vol. 32, Number 6, June 2014). The adaptor protein may utilize known linkers to attach such functional domains. In some cases it is advantageous that additionally at least one NLS is provided. In some instances, it is advantageous to position the NLS at the N terminus. When more than one functional domain is included, the functional domains may be the same or different.

In general, the positioning of the one or more functional domain on the inactivated Cas9 enzyme is one which allows for correct spatial orientation for the functional domain to affect the target with the attributed functional effect. For example, if the functional domain is a transcription activator (e.g. VP64 or p65), the transcription activator is placed in a spatial orientation which allows it to affect the transcription of the target. Likewise, a transcription repressor will be advantageously positioned to affect the transcription of the target, and a nuclease (e.g. Fok1) will be advantageously positioned to cleave or partially cleave the target. This may include positions other than the N-/C-terminus of the Cas9 enzyme.

The adaptor protein may be any number of proteins that binds to an aptamer or recognition site introduced into the modified guide RNA and which allows proper positioning of one or more functional domains, once the guide RNA has been incorporated into the CRISPR complex, to affect the target with the attributed function. As explained in detail in this application such may be coat proteins, preferably bacteriophage coat proteins. The functional domains associated with such adaptor proteins (e.g. in the form of fusion protein) may include, for example, one or more domains from the group consisting of methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, RNA cleavage activity, DNA cleavage activity, nucleic acid binding activity, and molecular switches (e.g. light inducible). Preferred domains are Fok1, VP64, P65, HSF1, MyoD1. In the event that the functional domain is a transcription activator or transcription repressor it is advantageous that additionally at least an NLS is provided and preferably at the N terminus. When more than one functional domain is included, the functional domains may be the same or different. The adaptor protein may utilize known linkers to attach such functional domains.

Thus, the modified guide RNA, the inactivated Cas9 enzyme (with or without functional domains), and the binding protein with one or more functional domains, may each individually be comprised in a composition and administered to a host individually or collectively. Alternatively, these components may be provided in a single composition for administration to a host. Administration to a host may be performed via viral vectors known to the skilled person or described herein for delivery to a host (e.g. lentiviral vector, adenoviral vector, AAV vector). As explained herein, use of different selection markers (e.g. for lentiviral gRNA selection) and concentration of gRNA (e.g. dependent on whether multiple gRNAs are used) may be advantageous for eliciting an improved effect.

On the basis of this concept, several variations are appropriate to elicit a genomic locus event, including DNA cleavage, gene activation, or gene deactivation. Using the provided compositions, the person skilled in the art can advantageously and specifically target single or multiple loci with the same or different functional domains to elicit one or more genomic locus events. The compositions may be applied in a wide variety of methods for screening in libraries in cells and functional modeling in vivo (e.g. gene activation of lincRNA and identification of function; gain-of-function modeling; loss-of-function modeling; the use the compositions of the invention to establish cell lines and transgenic animals for optimization and screening purposes).

The current invention comprehends the use of the compositions of the current invention to establish and utilize conditional or inducible CRISPR transgenic cell/animals. (See, e.g., Platt et al., Cell (2014), http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2014.09.014, or PCT patent publications cited herein, such as WO 2014/093622 (PCT/US2013/074667), which are not believed prior to the present invention or application). For example, the target cell comprises Cas9 CRISPR enzyme conditionally or inducibly (e.g. in the form of Cre dependent constructs) and/or the adapter protein conditionally or inducibly and, on expression of a vector introduced into the target cell, the vector expresses that which induces or gives rise to the condition of Cas9 enzyme expression and/or adaptor expression in the target cell. By applying the teaching and compositions of the current invention with the known method of creating a CRISPR complex, inducible genomic events affected by functional domains are also an aspect of the current invention. One mere example of this is the creation of a CRISPR knock-in/conditional transgenic animal (e.g. mouse comprising e.g. a Lox-Stop-polyA-Lox (LSL) cassette) and subsequent delivery of one or more compositions providing one or more modified guide RNA (e.g. −200 nucleotides to TSS of a target gene of interest for gene activation purposes) as described herein (e.g. modified guide RNA with one or more aptamers recognized by coat proteins, e.g. MS2), one or more adapter proteins as described herein (MS2 binding protein linked to one or more VP64) and means for inducing the conditional animal (e.g. Cre recombinase for rendering Cas9 expression inducible). Alternatively, the adaptor protein may be provided as a conditional or inducible element with a conditional or inducible Cas9 enzyme to provide an effective model for screening purposes, which advantageously only requires minimal design and administration of specific gRNAs for a broad number of applications.

Deactivated/Inactivated Cas Protein

Where the Cas9 protein has nuclease activity, the Cas9 protein may be modified to have diminished nuclease activity e.g., nuclease inactivation of at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 97%, or 100% as compared with the wild type enzyme; or to put in another way, a Cas9 enzyme having advantageously about 0% of the nuclease activity of the non-mutated or wild type Cas9 enzyme or CRISPR enzyme, or no more than about 3% or about 5% or about 10% of the nuclease activity of the non-mutated or wild type Cas9 enzyme, e.g. of the non-mutated or wild type S pyogenes Cas9 enzyme or CRISPR enzyme. This is possible by introducing mutations into the nuclease domains of the Cas9 and orthologs thereof.

The inactivated Cas9 CRISPR enzyme may have associated (e.g., via fusion protein) one or more functional domains, including for example, one or more domains from the group comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, RNA cleavage activity, DNA cleavage activity, nucleic acid binding activity, and molecular switches (e.g., light inducible). Preferred domains are Fok1, VP64, P65, HSF1, MyoD1. In the event that Fok1 is provided, it is advantageous that multiple Fok1 functional domains are provided to allow for a functional dimer and that sgRNAs are designed to provide proper spacing for functional use (Fok1) as specifically described in Tsai et al. Nature Biotechnology, Vol. 32, Number 6, June 2014). The adaptor protein may utilize known linkers to attach such functional domains. In some cases it is advantageous that additionally at least one NLS is provided. In some instances, it is advantageous to position the NLS at the N terminus. When more than one functional domain is included, the functional domains may be the same or different.

In general, the positioning of the one or more functional domain on the inactivated Cas9 enzyme is one which allows for correct spatial orientation for the functional domain to affect the target with the attributed functional effect. For example, if the functional domain is a transcription activator (e.g., VP64 or p65), the transcription activator is placed in a spatial orientation which allows it to affect the transcription of the target. Likewise, a transcription repressor will be advantageously positioned to affect the transcription of the target, and a nuclease (e.g., Fok1) will be advantageously positioned to cleave or partially cleave the target. This may include positions other than the N-/C-terminus of the CRISPR enzyme.

In an embodiment, the Cas9 may comprise one or more mutations (and hence nucleic acid molecule(s) coding for same may have mutation(s). The mutations may be artificially introduced mutations and may include but are not limited to one or more mutations in a catalytic domain. Examples of catalytic domains with reference to a Cas9 enzyme may include but are not limited to RuvC I, RuvC II, RuvC III and HNH domains.

In an embodiment, the Cas9 may comprise one or more mutations. The mutations may be artificially introduced mutations and may include but are not limited to one or more mutations in a catalytic domain, to provide a nickase, for example. Examples of catalytic domains with reference to a Cas enzyme may include but are not limited to RuvC I, RuvC II, RuvC III, and HNH domains.

In an embodiment, the Cas9 may be used as a generic nucleic acid binding protein with fusion to or being operably linked to a functional domain. Exemplary functional domains may include but are not limited to translational initiator, translational activator, translational repressor, nucleases, in particular ribonucleases, a spliceosome, beads, a light inducible/controllable domain or a chemically inducible/controllable domain.

In some embodiments, the unmodified nucleic acid-targeting effector protein may have cleavage activity. In some embodiments, the RNA-targeting effector protein may direct cleavage of one or both nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) strands at the location of or near a target sequence, such as within the target sequence and/or within the complement of the target sequence or at sequences associated with the target sequence. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid-targeting Cas9 protein may direct cleavage of one or both DNA or RNA strands within about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 50, 100, 200, 500, or more base pairs from the first or last nucleotide of a target sequence. In some embodiments, the cleavage may be blunt, i.e., generating blunt ends. In some embodiments, the cleavage may be staggered, i.e., generating sticky ends. In some embodiments, the cleavage may be a staggered cut with a 5′ overhang, e.g., a 5′ overhang of 1 to 5 nucleotides. In some embodiments, the cleavage may be a staggered cut with a 3′ overhang, e.g., a 3′ overhang of 1 to 5 nucleotides. In some embodiments, a vector encodes a nucleic acid-targeting Cas protein that may be mutated with respect to a corresponding wild-type enzyme such that the mutated nucleic acid-targeting Cas protein lacks the ability to cleave one or both DNA or RNA strands of a target polynucleotide containing a target sequence. As a further example, two or more catalytic domains of Cas (RuvC I, RuvC II, and RuvC III or the HNH domain) may be mutated to produce a mutated Cas substantially lacking all RNA cleavage activity. As described herein, corresponding catalytic domains of a Cas9 effector protein may also be mutated to produce a mutated Cas9 lacking all DNA cleavage activity or having substantially reduced DNA cleavage activity. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid-targeting effector protein may be considered to substantially lack all RNA cleavage activity when the RNA cleavage activity of the mutated enzyme is about no more than 25%, 10%, 5%, 1%, 0.1%, 0.01%, or less of the nucleic acid cleavage activity of the non-mutated form of the enzyme; an example can be when the nucleic acid cleavage activity of the mutated form is nil or negligible as compared with the non-mutated form. An effector protein may be identified with reference to the general class of enzymes that share homology to the biggest nuclease with multiple nuclease domains from the Type II CRISPR system. Most preferably, the effector protein is a Type II protein such as Cas9. By derived, Applicants mean that the derived enzyme is largely based, in the sense of having a high degree of sequence homology with, a wildtype enzyme, but that it has been mutated (modified) in some way as known in the art or as described herein.

Again, it will be appreciated that the terms Cas and CRISPR enzyme and CRISPR protein and Cas protein are generally used interchangeably and at all points of reference herein refer by analogy to novel CRISPR effector proteins further described in this application, unless otherwise apparent, such as by specific reference to Cas9. As mentioned above, many of the residue numberings used herein refer to the effector protein from the Type II CRISPR locus. However, it will be appreciated that this invention includes many more effector proteins from other species of microbes.

List of Organisms as Possible Origin of the Cas Protein

The Cas protein may comprise a Cas protein from an organism from a genus comprising Streptococcus, Campylobacter, Nitratifractor, Staphylococcus, Parvibaculum, Roseburia, Neisseria, Gluconacetobacter, Azospirillum, Sphaerochaeta, Lactobacillus, Eubacterium or Corynebacter.

The Cas9 protein may comprise a Cas9 protein from an organism from a genus comprising Streptococcus, Campylobacter, Nitratifractor, Staphylococcus, Parvibaculum, Roseburia, Neisseria, Gluconacetobacter, Azospirillum, Sphaerochaeta, Lactobacillus, Eubacterium or Corynebacter.

Preferred examples include S pyogenes, S aureus.

In an embodiment, the Cas9 protein may be an ortholog of an organism of a genus which includes but is not limited to Corynebacter, Sutterella, Legionella, Treponema, Filifactor, Eubacterium, Streptococcus, Lactobacillus, Mycoplasma, Bacteroides, Flaviivola, Flavobacterium, Sphaerochaeta, Azospirillum, Gluconacetobacter, Neisseria, Roseburia, Parvibaculum, Staphylococcus, Nitratifractor, Mycoplasma and Campylobacter. Species of an organism of such a genus can be as otherwise herein discussed.

Some methods of identifying orthologs of CRISPR-Cas system enzymes may involve identifying tracr sequences in genomes of interest. Identification of tracr sequences may relate to the following steps: Search for the direct repeats or tracr mate sequences in a database to identify a CRISPR region comprising a CRISPR enzyme. Search for homologous sequences in the CRISPR region flanking the CRISPR enzyme in both the sense and antisense directions. Look for transcriptional terminators and secondary structures. Identify any sequence that is not a direct repeat or a tracr mate sequence but has more than 50% identity to the direct repeat or tracr mate sequence as a potential tracr sequence. Take the potential tracr sequence and analyze for transcriptional terminator sequences associated therewith.

It will be appreciated that any of the functionalities described herein may be engineered into CRISPR enzymes from other orthologs, including chimeric enzymes comprising fragments from multiple orthologs. Examples of such orthologs are described elsewhere herein. Thus, chimeric enzymes may comprise fragments of CRISPR enzyme orthologs of an organism which includes but is not limited to Corynebacter, Sutterella, Legionella, Treponema, Filifactor, Eubacterium, Streptococcus, Lactobacillus, Mycoplasma, Bacteroides, Flaviivola, Flavobacterium, Sphaerochaeta, Azospirillum, Gluconacetobacter, Neisseria, Roseburia, Parvibaculum, Staphylococcus, Nitratifractor, Mycoplasma and Campylobacter. A chimeric enzyme can comprise a first fragment and a second fragment, and the fragments can be of CRISPR enzyme orthologs of organisms of genuses herein mentioned or of species herein mentioned; advantageously the fragments are from CRISPR enzyme orthologs of different species.

For minimization of toxicity and off-target effect, it will be important to control the concentration of CRISPR enzyme mRNA and guide RNA delivered. Optimal concentrations of CRISPR enzyme mRNA and guide RNA can be determined by testing different concentrations in a cellular or animal model and using deep sequencing the analyze the extent of modification at potential off-target genomic loci. For example, for the guide sequence targeting 5′-GAGTCCGAGCAGAAGAAGAA-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 51) in the EMX1 gene of the human genome, deep sequencing can be used to assess the level of modification at the following two off-target loci, 1: 5′-GAGTCCTAGCAGGAGAAGAA-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 52) and 2: 5′-GAGTCTAAGCAGAAGAAGAA-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 53). The concentration that gives the highest level of on-target modification while minimizing the level of off-target modification should be chosen for in vivo delivery.

Delivery: Options for DNA/RNA or DNA/DNA or RNA/RNA or Protein/RNA

In some embodiments, the components of the CRISPR system may be delivered in various form, such as combinations of DNA/RNA or RNA/RNA or protein RNA. For example, the Cas9 may be delivered as a DNA-coding polynucleotide or an RNA-coding polynucleotide or as a protein. The guide may be delivered may be delivered as a DNA-coding polynucleotide or an RNA. All possible combinations are envisioned, including mixed forms of delivery.

In some embodiments, all such combinations (DNA/RNA or DNA/DNA or RNA/RNA or protein/RNA).

In some embodiment, when the Cas9 is delivered in protein form, it is possible to pre-assemble same with one or more guide/s.

Delivery: Nanoclews

Further, the CRISPR system may be delivered using nanoclews, for example as described in Sun W et al, Cocoon-like self-degradable DNA nanoclew for anticancer drug delivery., J Am Chem Soc. 2014 Oct. 22; 136(42):14722-5. doi: 10.1021/ja5088024. Epub 2014 Oct. 13; or in Sun W et al, Self-Assembled DNA Nanoclews for the Efficient Delivery of CRISPR-Cas9 for Genome Editing., Angew Chem Int Ed Engl. 2015 Oct. 5; 54(41):12029-33. doi: 10.1002/anie.201506030. Epub 2015 August 27.

Delivery—GalNAc

CRISPR complex components may be delivered by conjugation or association with transport moieties (adapted for example from approaches disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,106,022; 8,313,772, incorporated herein by reference). Nucleic acid delivery strategies may for example be used to improve delivery of guide RNA, or messenger RNAs or coding DNAs encoding CRISPR complex components, including the CRISPR protein. For example, RNAs may incorporate modified RNA nucleotides to improve stability, reduce immunostimulation, and/or improve specificity (see Deleavey, Glen F. et al., 2012, Chemistry & Biology, Volume 19, Issue 8, 937-954; Zalipsky, 1995, Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews 16: 157-182; Caliceti and Veronese, 2003, Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews 55: 1261-1277). Various constructs have been described that may be used to modify nucleic acids, such as gRNAs, for more efficient delivery, such as reversible charge-neutralizing phosphotriester backbone modifications that may be adapted to modify gRNAs so as to be more hydrophobic and non-anionic, thereby improving cell entry (Meade B R et al., 2014, Nature Biotechnology 32,1256-1261). In further alternative embodiments, selected RNA motifs may be useful for mediating cellular transfection (Magalhães M., et al., Molecular Therapy (2012); 20 3, 616-624). Similarly, aptamers may be adapted for delivery of CRISPR complex components, for example by appending aptamers to gRNAs (Tan W. et al., 2011, Trends in Biotechnology, December 2011, Vol. 29, No. 12).

In some embodiments, conjugation of triantennary N-acetyl galactosamine (GalNAc) to oligonucleotide components may be used to improve delivery, for example delivery to select cell types, for example hepatocytes (see WO2014118272, incorporated herein by reference; Nair, J K et al., 2014, Journal of the American Chemical Society 136 (49), 16958-16961). This may be considered to be a sugar-based particle and further details on other particle delivery systems and/or formulations are provided herein under the corresponding heading. GalNAc can therefore be considered to be a particle in the sense of the other particles described herein, such that general uses and other considerations, for instance delivery of said particles, apply to GalNAc particles as well. A solution-phase conjugation strategy may for example be used to attach triantennary GalNAc clusters (mol. wt. ˜2000) activated as PFP (pentafluorophenyl) esters onto 5′-hexylamino modified oligonucleotides (5′-HA ASOs, mol. wt. ˜8000 Da; Østergaard et al., Bioconjugate Chem., 2015, 26 (8), pp 1451-1455). Similarly, poly(acrylate) polymers have been described for in vivo nucleic acid delivery (see WO2013158141, incorporated herein by reference). In further alternative embodiments, pre-mixing CRISPR nanoparticles (or protein complexes) with naturally occurring serum proteins may be used in order to improve delivery (Akinc A et al, 2010, Molecular Therapy vol. 18 no. 7, 1357-1364).

Screening techniques are available to identify delivery enhancers, for example by screening chemical libraries (Gilleron J. et al., 2015, Nucl. Acids Res. 43 (16): 7984-8001). Approaches have also been described for assessing the efficiency of delivery vehicles, such as lipid nanoparticles, which may be employed to identify effective delivery vehicles for CRISPR components (see Sahay G. et al., 2013, Nature Biotechnology 31, 653-658).

In some embodiments, delivery of protein CRISPR components may be facilitated with the addition of functional peptides to the protein, such as peptides that change protein hydrophobicity, for example so as to improve in vivo functionality. CRISPR complex component proteins may similarly be modified to facilitate subsequent chemical reactions. For example, amino acids may be added to a protein that have a group that undergoes click chemistry (Nikić I. et al., 2015, Nature Protocols 10,780-791). In embodiments of this kind, the click chemical group may then be used to add a wide variety of alternative structures, such as poly(ethylene glycol) for stability, cell penetrating peptides, RNA aptamers, lipids, or carbohydrates such as GalNAc. In further alternatives, a CRISPR complex component protein may be modified to adapt the protein for cell entry (see Svensen et al., 2012, Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, Vol. 33, No. 4), for example by adding cell penetrating peptides to the protein (see Kauffman, W. Berkeley et al., 2015, Trends in Biochemical Sciences, Volume 40, Issue 12, 749-764; Koren and Torchilin, 2012, Trends in Molecular Medicine, Vol. 18, No. 7). In further alternative embodiment, patients or subjects may be pre-treated with compounds or formulations that facilitate the later delivery of CRISPR complex components.

Inducible Systems

In some embodiments, a CRISPR enzyme may form a component of an inducible system. The inducible nature of the system would allow for spatiotemporal control of gene editing or gene expression using a form of energy. The form of energy may include but is not limited to electromagnetic radiation, sound energy, chemical energy and thermal energy. Examples of inducible system include tetracycline inducible promoters (Tet-On or Tet-Off), small molecule two-hybrid transcription activations systems (FKBP, ABA, etc), or light inducible systems (Phytochrome, LOV domains, or cryptochrome),In one embodiment, the CRISPR enzyme may be a part of a Light Inducible Transcriptional Effector (LITE) to direct changes in transcriptional activity in a sequence-specific manner. The components of a light may include a CRISPR enzyme, a light-responsive cytochrome heterodimer (e.g. from Arabidopsis thaliana), and a transcriptional activation/repression domain. Further examples of inducible DNA binding proteins and methods for their use are provided in U.S. 61/736,465, U.S. 61/721,283 and WO 2014/018423, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Self-Inactivating Systems

Once all copies of a gene in the genome of a cell have been edited, continued CRISRP/Cas9 expression in that cell is no longer necessary. Indeed, sustained expression would be undesirable in case of off-target effects at unintended genomic sites, etc. Thus time-limited expression would be useful. Inducible expression offers one approach, but in addition Applicants have engineered a Self-Inactivating CRISPR-Cas9 system that relies on the use of a non-coding guide target sequence within the CRISPR vector itself. Thus, after expression begins, the CRISPR system will lead to its own destruction, but before destruction is complete it will have time to edit the genomic copies of the target gene (which, with a normal point mutation in a diploid cell, requires at most two edits). Simply, the self inactivating CRISPR-Cas system includes additional RNA (i.e., guide RNA) that targets the coding sequence for the CRISPR enzyme itself or that targets one or more non-coding guide target sequences complementary to unique sequences present in one or more of the following:

(a) within the promoter driving expression of the non-coding RNA elements, (b) within the promoter driving expression of the Cas9 gene, (c) within 100 bp of the ATG translational start codon in the Cas9 coding sequence, (d) within the inverted terminal repeat (iTR) of a viral delivery vector, e.g., in the AAV genome.

Furthermore, that RNA can be delivered via a vector, e.g., a separate vector or the same vector that is encoding the CRISPR complex. When provided by a separate vector, the CRISPR RNA that targets Cas expression can be administered sequentially or simultaneously. When administered sequentially, the CRISPR RNA that targets Cas expression is to be delivered after the CRISPR RNA that is intended for e.g. gene editing or gene engineering. This period may be a period of minutes (e.g. 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, 45 minutes, 60 minutes). This period may be a period of hours (e.g. 2 hours, 4 hours, 6 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours). This period may be a period of days (e.g. 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 7 days). This period may be a period of weeks (e.g. 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 4 weeks). This period may be a period of months (e.g. 2 months, 4 months, 8 months, 12 months). This period may be a period of years (2 years, 3 years, 4 years). In this fashion, the Cas enzyme associates with a first gRNA/chiRNA capable of hybridizing to a first target, such as a genomic locus or loci of interest and undertakes the function(s) desired of the CRISPR-Cas system (e.g., gene engineering); and subsequently the Cas enzyme may then associate with the second gRNA/chiRNA capable of hybridizing to the sequence comprising at least part of the Cas or CRISPR cassette. Where the gRNA/chiRNA targets the sequences encoding expression of the Cas protein, the enzyme becomes impeded and the system becomes self inactivating. In the same manner, CRISPR RNA that targets Cas expression applied via, for example liposome, lipofection, particles, microvesicles as explained herein, may be administered sequentially or simultaneously. Similarly, self-inactivation may be used for inactivation of one or more guide RNA used to target one or more targets.

In some aspects, a single gRNA is provided that is capable of hybridization to a sequence downstream of a CRISPR enzyme start codon, whereby after a period of time there is a loss of the CRISPR enzyme expression. In some aspects, one or more gRNA(s) are provided that are capable of hybridization to one or more coding or non-coding regions of the polynucleotide encoding the CRISPR-Cas system, whereby after a period of time there is a inactivation of one or more, or in some cases all, of the CRISPR-Cas system. In some aspects of the system, and not to be limited by theory, the cell may comprise a plurality of CRISPR-Cas complexes, wherein a first subset of CRISPR complexes comprise a first chiRNA capable of targeting a genomic locus or loci to be edited, and a second subset of CRISPR complexes comprise at least one second chiRNA capable of targeting the polynucleotide encoding the CRISPR-Cas system, wherein the first subset of CRISPR-Cas complexes mediate editing of the targeted genomic locus or loci and the second subset of CRISPR complexes eventually inactivate the CRISPR-Cas system, thereby inactivating further CRISPR-Cas expression in the cell.

Thus the invention provides a CRISPR-Cas system comprising one or more vectors for delivery to a eukaryotic cell, wherein the vector(s) encode(s): (i) a CRISPR enzyme; (ii) a first guide RNA capable of hybridizing to a target sequence in the cell; (iii) a second guide RNA capable of hybridizing to one or more target sequence(s) in the vector which encodes the CRISPR enzyme; (iv) at least one tracr mate sequence; and (v) at least one tracr sequence, The first and second complexes can use the same tracr and tracr mate, thus differing only by the guide sequence, wherein, when expressed within the cell: the first guide RNA directs sequence-specific binding of a first CRISPR complex to the target sequence in the cell; the second guide RNA directs sequence-specific binding of a second CRISPR complex to the target sequence in the vector which encodes the CRISPR enzyme; the CRISPR complexes comprise (a) a tracr mate sequence hybridised to a tracr sequence and (b) a CRISPR enzyme bound to a guide RNA, such that a guide RNA can hybridize to its target sequence; and the second CRISPR complex inactivates the CRISPR-Cas system to prevent continued expression of the CRISPR enzyme by the cell.

Further characteristics of the vector(s), the encoded enzyme, the guide sequences, etc. are disclosed elsewhere herein. For instance, one or both of the guide sequence(s) can be part of a chiRNA sequence which provides the guide, tracr mate and tracr sequences within a single RNA, such that the system can encode (i) a CRISPR enzyme; (ii) a first chiRNA comprising a sequence capable of hybridizing to a first target sequence in the cell, a first tracr mate sequence, and a first tracr sequence; (iii) a second guide RNA capable of hybridizing to the vector which encodes the CRISPR enzyme, a second tracr mate sequence, and a second tracr sequence. Similarly, the enzyme can include one or more NLS, etc.

The various coding sequences (CRISPR enzyme, guide RNAs, tracr and tracr mate) can be included on a single vector or on multiple vectors. For instance, it is possible to encode the enzyme on one vector and the various RNA sequences on another vector, or to encode the enzyme and one chiRNA on one vector, and the remaining chiRNA on another vector, or any other permutation. In general, a system using a total of one or two different vectors is preferred.

Where multiple vectors are used, it is possible to deliver them in unequal numbers, and ideally with an excess of a vector which encodes the first guide RNA relative to the second guide RNA, thereby assisting in delaying final inactivation of the CRISPR system until genome editing has had a chance to occur.

The first guide RNA can target any target sequence of interest within a genome, as described elsewhere herein. The second guide RNA targets a sequence within the vector which encodes the CRISPR Cas9 enzyme, and thereby inactivates the enzyme's expression from that vector. Thus the target sequence in the vector must be capable of inactivating expression. Suitable target sequences can be, for instance, near to or within the translational start codon for the Cas9 coding sequence, in a non-coding sequence in the promoter driving expression of the non-coding RNA elements, within the promoter driving expression of the Cas9 gene, within 100 bp of the ATG translational start codon in the Cas9 coding sequence, and/or within the inverted terminal repeat (iTR) of a viral delivery vector, e.g., in the AAV genome. A double stranded break near this region can induce a frame shift in the Cas9 coding sequence, causing a loss of protein expression. An alternative target sequence for the “self-inactivating” guide RNA would aim to edit/inactivate regulatory regions/sequences needed for the expression of the CRISPR-Cas9 system or for the stability of the vector. For instance, if the promoter for the Cas9 coding sequence is disrupted then transcription can be inhibited or prevented. Similarly, if a vector includes sequences for replication, maintenance or stability then it is possible to target these. For instance, in a AAV vector a useful target sequence is within the iTR. Other useful sequences to target can be promoter sequences, polyadenlyation sites, etc.

Furthermore, if the guide RNAs are expressed in array format, the “self-inactivating” guide RNAs that target both promoters simultaneously will result in the excision of the intervening nucleotides from within the CRISPR-Cas expression construct, effectively leading to its complete inactivation. Similarly, excision of the intervening nucleotides will result where the guide RNAs target both ITRs, or targets two or more other CRISPR-Cas components simultaneously. Self-inactivation as explained herein is applicable, in general, with CRISPR-Cas9 systems in order to provide regulation of the CRISPR-Cas9. For example, self-inactivation as explained herein may be applied to the CRISPR repair of mutations, for example expansion disorders, as explained herein. As a result of this self-inactivation, CRISPR repair is only transiently active.

Addition of non-targeting nucleotides to the 5′ end (e.g. 1-10 nucleotides, preferably 1-5 nucleotides) of the “self-inactivating” guide RNA can be used to delay its processing and/or modify its efficiency as a means of ensuring editing at the targeted genomic locus prior to CRISPR-Cas9 shutdown.

In one aspect of the self-inactivating AAV-CRISPR-Cas9 system, plasmids that co-express one or more sgRNA targeting genomic sequences of interest (e.g. 1-2, 1-5, 1-10, 1-15, 1-20, 1-30) may be established with “self-inactivating” sgRNAs that target an SpCas9 sequence at or near the engineered ATG start site (e.g. within 5 nucleotides, within 15 nucleotides, within 30 nucleotides, within 50 nucleotides, within 100 nucleotides). A regulatory sequence in the U6 promoter region can also be targeted with an sgRNA. The U6-driven sgRNAs may be designed in an array format such that multiple sgRNA sequences can be simultaneously released. When first delivered into target tissue/cells (left cell) sgRNAs begin to accumulate while Cas9 levels rise in the nucleus. Cas9 complexes with all of the sgRNAs to mediate genome editing and self-inactivation of the CRISPR-Cas9 plasmids.

One aspect of a self-inactivating CRISPR-Cas9 system is expression of singly or in tandem array format from 1 up to 4 or more different guide sequences; e.g. up to about 20 or about 30 guides sequences. Each individual self inactivating guide sequence may target a different target. Such may be processed from, e.g. one chimeric pol3 transcript. Pol3 promoters such as U6 or H1 promoters may be used. Pol2 promoters such as those mentioned throughout herein. Inverted terminal repeat (iTR) sequences may flank the Pol3 promoter-sgRNA(s)-Pol2 promoter-Cas9.

One aspect of a chimeric, tandem array transcript is that one or more guide(s) edit the one or more target(s) while one or more self inactivating guides inactivate the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Thus, for example, the described CRISPR-Cas9 system for repairing expansion disorders may be directly combined with the self-inactivating CRISPR-Cas9 system described herein. Such a system may, for example, have two guides directed to the target region for repair as well as at least a third guide directed to self-inactivation of the CRISPR-Cas9. Reference is made to Application Ser. No. PCT/US2014/069897, entitled “Compositions And Methods Of Use Of Crispr-Cas Systems In Nucleotide Repeat Disorders,” published Dec. 12, 2014 as WO/2015/089351.

Kits

In one aspect, the invention provides kits containing any one or more of the elements disclosed in the above methods and compositions. Elements may be provided individually or in combinations, and may be provided in any suitable container, such as a vial, a bottle, or a tube. In some embodiments, the kit includes instructions in one or more languages, for example in more than one language.

In some embodiments, a kit comprises one or more reagents for use in a process utilizing one or more of the elements described herein. Reagents may be provided in any suitable container. For example, a kit may provide one or more reaction or storage buffers. Reagents may be provided in a form that is usable in a particular assay, or in a form that requires addition of one or more other components before use (e.g. in concentrate or lyophilized form). A buffer can be any buffer, including but not limited to a sodium carbonate buffer, a sodium bicarbonate buffer, a borate buffer, a Tris buffer, a MOPS buffer, a HEPES buffer, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the buffer is alkaline. In some embodiments, the buffer has a pH from about 7 to about 10. In some embodiments, the kit comprises one or more oligonucleotides corresponding to a guide sequence for insertion into a vector so as to operably link the guide sequence and a regulatory element. In some embodiments, the kit comprises a homologous recombination template polynucleotide. In some embodiments, the kit comprises one or more of the vectors and/or one or more of the polynucleotides described herein. The kit may advantageously allows to provide all elements of the systems of the invention.

Nucleic Acid-Targeting Systems and Methods

The term “nucleic acid-targeting system”, wherein nucleic acid is DNA or RNA, and in some aspects may also refer to DNA-RNA hybrids or derivatives thereof, refers collectively to transcripts and other elements involved in the expression of or directing the activity of DNA or RNA-targeting CRISPR-associated (“Cas”) genes, which may include sequences encoding a DNA or RNA-targeting Cas protein and a DNA or RNA-targeting guide RNA comprising a CRISPR RNA (crRNA) sequence and (in some but not all systems) a trans-activating CRISPR/Cas system RNA (tracrRNA) sequence, or other sequences and transcripts from a DNA or RNA-targeting CRISPR locus. In general, a RNA-targeting system is characterized by elements that promote the formation of a DNA or RNA-targeting complex at the site of a target DNA or RNA sequence. In the context of formation of a DNA or RNA-targeting complex, “target sequence” refers to a DNA or RNA sequence to which a DNA or RNA-targeting guide RNA is designed to have complementarity, where hybridization between a target sequence and a RNA-targeting guide RNA promotes the formation of a RNA-targeting complex. In some embodiments, a target sequence is located in the nucleus or cytoplasm of a cell.

In an aspect of the invention, novel DNA targeting systems also referred to as DNA-targeting CRISPR/Cas or the CRISPR-Cas DNA-targeting system of the present application are based on identified Cas9 proteins which do not require the generation of customized proteins to target specific DNA sequences but rather a single effector protein or enzyme can be programmed by a RNA molecule to recognize a specific DNA target, in other words the enzyme can be recruited to a specific DNA target using said RNA molecule. Aspects of the invention particularly relate to DNA targeting RNA-guided SpCas9 CRISPR systems.

In one aspect, the invention provides methods for using one or more elements of a nucleic acid-targeting system. The nucleic acid-targeting complex of the invention provides an effective means for modifying a target DNA or RNA (single or double stranded, linear or super-coiled). The nucleic acid-targeting complex of the invention has a wide variety of utility including modifying (e.g., deleting, inserting, translocating, inactivating, activating) a target DNA or RNA in a multiplicity of cell types. As such the nucleic acid-targeting complex of the invention has a broad spectrum of applications in, e.g., gene therapy, drug screening, disease diagnosis, and prognosis. An exemplary nucleic acid-targeting complex comprises a DNA or RNA-targeting effector protein complexed with a guide RNA hybridized to a target sequence within the target locus of interest.

The nucleic acids-targeting systems, the vector systems, the vectors and the compositions described herein may be used in various nucleic acids-targeting applications, altering or modifying synthesis of a gene product, such as a protein, nucleic acids cleavage, nucleic acids editing, nucleic acids splicing; trafficking of target nucleic acids, tracing of target nucleic acids, isolation of target nucleic acids, visualization of target nucleic acids, etc.

Aspects of the invention also encompass methods and uses of the compositions and systems described herein in genome engineering, e.g. for altering or manipulating the expression of one or more genes or the one or more gene products, in prokaryotic or eukaryotic cells, in vitro, in vivo or ex vivo.

In one embodiment, this invention provides a method of cleaving a target DNA. The method may comprise modifying a target DNA using a nucleic acid-targeting complex that binds to the target DNA and effect cleavage of said target DNA. In an embodiment, the nucleic acid-targeting complex of the invention, when introduced into a cell, may create a break (e.g., a single or a double strand break) in the RNA sequence. For example, the method can be used to cleave a disease RNA in a cell. For example, an exogenous RNA template comprising a sequence to be integrated flanked by an upstream sequence and a downstream sequence may be introduced into a cell. The upstream and downstream sequences share sequence similarity with either side of the site of integration in the RNA. Where desired, a donor RNA can be mRNA. The exogenous RNA template comprises a sequence to be integrated (e.g., a mutated RNA). The sequence for integration may be a sequence endogenous or exogenous to the cell. Examples of a sequence to be integrated include RNA encoding a protein or a non-coding RNA (e.g., a microRNA). Thus, the sequence for integration may be operably linked to an appropriate control sequence or sequences. Alternatively, the sequence to be integrated may provide a regulatory function. The upstream and downstream sequences in the exogenous RNA template are selected to promote recombination between the RNA sequence of interest and the donor RNA. The upstream sequence is a RNA sequence that shares sequence similarity with the RNA sequence upstream of the targeted site for integration. Similarly, the downstream sequence is a RNA sequence that shares sequence similarity with the RNA sequence downstream of the targeted site of integration. The upstream and downstream sequences in the exogenous RNA template can have 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% sequence identity with the targeted RNA sequence. Preferably, the upstream and downstream sequences in the exogenous RNA template have about 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity with the targeted RNA sequence. In some methods, the upstream and downstream sequences in the exogenous RNA template have about 99% or 100% sequence identity with the targeted RNA sequence. An upstream or downstream sequence may comprise from about 20 bp to about 2500 bp, for example, about 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200, 2300, 2400, or 2500 bp. In some methods, the exemplary upstream or downstream sequence have about 200 bp to about 2000 bp, about 600 bp to about 1000 bp, or more particularly about 700 bp to about 1000 bp. In some methods, the exogenous RNA template may further comprise a marker. Such a marker may make it easy to screen for targeted integrations. Examples of suitable markers include restriction sites, fluorescent proteins, or selectable markers. The exogenous RNA template of the invention can be constructed using recombinant techniques (see, for example, Sambrook et al., 2001 and Ausubel et al., 1996). In a method for modifying a target DNA by integrating an exogenous DNA template, a break (e.g., double or single stranded break) is introduced into the DNA sequence by the nucleic acid-targeting complex, the break is repaired via homologous recombination with an exogenous DNA template such that the template is integrated into the DNA target. The presence of a double-stranded break facilitates integration of the template. In other embodiments, this invention provides a method of modifying expression of a RNA in a eukaryotic cell. The method comprises increasing or decreasing expression of a target polynucleotide by using a nucleic acid-targeting complex that binds to the DNA encoding RNA (e.g., mRNA or pre-mRNA). In some methods, a target DNA can be inactivated to effect the modification of the expression in a cell. For example, upon the binding of a DNA-targeting complex to a target sequence in a cell, the target DNA is inactivated such that the sequence is not transcribed, the coded protein is not produced, or the sequence does not function as the wild-type sequence does. For example, a protein or microRNA coding sequence may be inactivated such that the protein or microRNA or pre-microRNA transcript is not produced. The target DNA of a DNA-targeting complex can be any DNA endogenous or exogenous to the eukaryotic cell. For example, the target DNA can be a DNA residing in the nucleus of the eukaryotic cell. The target DNA can be a sequence encoding a gene product (e.g., mRNA or pre-mRNA) coding a gene product (e.g., a protein) or a non-coding sequence (e.g., ncRNA, lncRNA, tRNA, or rRNA). Examples of target DNA include a sequence associated with a signaling biochemical pathway, e.g., a signaling biochemical pathway-associated DNA. Examples of target DNA include a disease associated DNA. A “disease-associated” DNA refers to any DNA which is yielding transcription products at an abnormal level or in an abnormal form in cells derived from a disease-affected tissues compared with tissues or cells of a non disease control. It may be a DNA transcribed from a gene that becomes expressed at an abnormally high level; it may be a DNA transcribed from a gene that becomes expressed at an abnormally low level, where the altered expression correlates with the occurrence and/or progression of the disease. A disease-associated DNA also refers to a DNA transcribed from a gene possessing mutation(s) or genetic variation that is directly responsible or is in linkage disequilibrium with a gene(s) that is responsible for the etiology of a disease. The translated products may be known or unknown, and may be at a normal or abnormal level. The target DNA of a DNA-targeting complex can be any DNA endogenous or exogenous to the eukaryotic cell. For example, the target DNA can be a DNA residing in the nucleus of the eukaryotic cell. The target DNA can be a sequence encoding a gene produce (e.g., mRNA, pre-mRNA, protein) or a non-coding sequence (e.g., ncRNA, lncRNA, tRNA, or rRNA).

In some embodiments, the method may comprise allowing a nucleic acid-targeting complex to bind to the target DNA to effect cleavage of said target DNA thereby modifying the target DNA, wherein the nucleic acid-targeting complex comprises a nucleic acid-targeting effector protein complexed with a guide RNA hybridized to a target sequence within said target DNA. In one aspect, the invention provides a method of modifying expression of DNA or RNA in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a nucleic acid-targeting complex to bind to the DNA such that said binding results in increased or decreased expression of said DNA; wherein the nucleic acid-targeting complex comprises a nucleic acid-targeting effector protein complexed with a guide RNA. Similar considerations and conditions apply as above for methods of modifying a target DNA. In fact, these sampling, culturing and re-introduction options apply across the aspects of the present invention. In one aspect, the invention provides for methods of modifying a target DNA in a eukaryotic cell, which may be in vivo, ex vivo or in vitro. In some embodiments, the method comprises sampling a cell or population of cells from a human or non-human animal, and modifying the cell or cells. Culturing may occur at any stage ex vivo. The cell or cells may even be re-introduced into the non-human animal or plant. For re-introduced cells it is particularly preferred that the cells are stem cells.

Indeed, in any aspect of the invention, the nucleic acid-targeting complex may comprise a nucleic acid-targeting effector protein complexed with a guide RNA hybridized to a target sequence.

The invention relates to the engineering and optimization of systems, methods and compositions used for the control of gene expression involving DNA sequence targeting, that relate to the nucleic acid-targeting system and components thereof. An advantage of the present methods is that the CRISPR system minimizes or avoids off-target binding and its resulting side effects. This is achieved using systems arranged to have a high degree of sequence specificity for the target DNA.

In relation to a nucleic acid-targeting complex or system preferably, the tracr sequence has one or more hairpins and is 30 or more nucleotides in length, 40 or more nucleotides in length, or 50 or more nucleotides in length; the crRNA sequence is between 10 to 30 nucleotides in length, the nucleic acid-targeting effector protein is a Type II Cas9 effector protein.

Editing and Modifying

In one aspect, the invention provides methods for using one or more elements of a CRISPR system. The CRISPR complex of the invention provides an effective means for modifying a target polynucleotide. The CRISPR complex of the invention has a wide variety of utility including modifying (e.g., deleting, inserting, translocating, inactivating, activating) a target polynucleotide in a multiplicity of cell types. As such the CRISPR complex of the invention has a broad spectrum of applications in, e.g., gene therapy, drug screening, disease diagnosis, and prognosis. An exemplary CRISPR complex comprises a CRISPR enzyme complexed with a guide sequence hybridized to a target sequence within the target polynucleotide. In certain embodiments, a direct repeat sequence is linked to the guide sequence.

DNA Cleavage and Repair

The method comprises modifying a target polynucleotide using a CRISPR complex that binds to the target polynucleotide and effect cleavage of said target polynucleotide. Typically, the CRISPR complex of the invention, when introduced into a cell, creates a break (e.g., a single or a double strand break) in the genome sequence. For example, the method can be used to cleave a disease gene in a cell. The break created by the CRISPR complex can be repaired by a repair processes such as the error prone non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) pathway or the high fidelity homology-directed repair (HDR). During these repair process, an exogenous polynucleotide template can be introduced into the genome sequence. In some methods, the HDR process is used modify genome sequence. For example, an exogenous polynucleotide template comprising a sequence to be integrated flanked by an upstream sequence and a downstream sequence is introduced into a cell. The upstream and downstream sequences share sequence similarity with either side of the site of integration in the chromosome. Where desired, a donor polynucleotide can be DNA, e.g., a DNA plasmid, a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC), a yeast artificial chromosome (YAC), a viral vector, a linear piece of DNA, a PCR fragment, a naked nucleic acid, or a nucleic acid complexed with a delivery vehicle such as a liposome or poloxamer. The exogenous polynucleotide template comprises a sequence to be integrated (e.g., a mutated gene). The sequence for integration may be a sequence endogenous or exogenous to the cell. Examples of a sequence to be integrated include polynucleotides encoding a protein or a non-coding RNA (e.g., a microRNA). Thus, the sequence for integration may be operably linked to an appropriate control sequence or sequences. Alternatively, the sequence to be integrated may provide a regulatory function. The upstream and downstream sequences in the exogenous polynucleotide template are selected to promote recombination between the chromosomal sequence of interest and the donor polynucleotide. The upstream sequence is a nucleic acid sequence that shares sequence similarity with the genome sequence upstream of the targeted site for integration. Similarly, the downstream sequence is a nucleic acid sequence that shares sequence similarity with the chromosomal sequence downstream of the targeted site of integration. The upstream and downstream sequences in the exogenous polynucleotide template can have 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% sequence identity with the targeted genome sequence. Preferably, the upstream and downstream sequences in the exogenous polynucleotide template have about 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity with the targeted genome sequence. In some methods, the upstream and downstream sequences in the exogenous polynucleotide template have about 99% or 100% sequence identity with the targeted genome sequence. An upstream or downstream sequence may comprise from about 20 bp to about 2500 bp, for example, about 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200, 2300, 2400, or 2500 bp. In some methods, the exemplary upstream or downstream sequence have about 200 bp to about 2000 bp, about 600 bp to about 1000 bp, or more particularly about 700 bp to about 1000 bp. In some methods, the exogenous polynucleotide template may further comprise a marker. Such a marker may make it easy to screen for targeted integrations. Examples of suitable markers include restriction sites, fluorescent proteins, or selectable markers. The exogenous polynucleotide template of the invention can be constructed using recombinant techniques (see, for example, Sambrook et al., 2001 and Ausubel et al., 1996). In a method for modifying a target polynucleotide by integrating an exogenous polynucleotide template, a double stranded break is introduced into the genome sequence by the CRISPR complex, the break is repaired via homologous recombination an exogenous polynucleotide template such that the template is integrated into the genome. The presence of a double-stranded break facilitates integration of the template. In other embodiments, this invention provides a method of modifying expression of a polynucleotide in a eukaryotic cell. The method comprises increasing or decreasing expression of a target polynucleotide by using a CRISPR complex that binds to the polynucleotide. In some methods, a target polynucleotide can be inactivated to effect the modification of the expression in a cell. For example, upon the binding of a CRISPR complex to a target sequence in a cell, the target polynucleotide is inactivated such that the sequence is not transcribed, the coded protein is not produced, or the sequence does not function as the wild-type sequence does. For example, a protein or microRNA coding sequence may be inactivated such that the protein or microRNA or pre-microRNA transcript is not produced. In some methods, a control sequence can be inactivated such that it no longer functions as a control sequence. As used herein, “control sequence” refers to any nucleic acid sequence that effects the transcription, translation, or accessibility of a nucleic acid sequence. Examples of a control sequence include, a promoter, a transcription terminator, and an enhancer are control sequences. The target polynucleotide of a CRISPR complex can be any polynucleotide endogenous or exogenous to the eukaryotic cell. For example, the target polynucleotide can be a polynucleotide residing in the nucleus of the eukaryotic cell. The target polynucleotide can be a sequence coding a gene product (e.g., a protein) or a non-coding sequence (e.g., a regulatory polynucleotide or a junk DNA). Examples of target polynucleotides include a sequence associated with a signaling biochemical pathway, e.g., a signaling biochemical pathway-associated gene or polynucleotide. Examples of target polynucleotides include a disease associated gene or polynucleotide. A “disease-associated” gene or polynucleotide refers to any gene or polynucleotide which is yielding transcription or translation products at an abnormal level or in an abnormal form in cells derived from a disease-affected tissues compared with tissues or cells of a non disease control. It may be a gene that becomes expressed at an abnormally high level; it may be a gene that becomes expressed at an abnormally low level, where the altered expression correlates with the occurrence and/or progression of the disease. A disease-associated gene also refers to a gene possessing mutation(s) or genetic variation that is directly responsible or is in linkage disequilibrium with a gene(s) that is responsible for the etiology of a disease. The transcribed or translated products may be known or unknown, and may be at a normal or abnormal level. The target polynucleotide of a CRISPR complex can be any polynucleotide endogenous or exogenous to the eukaryotic cell. For example, the target polynucleotide can be a polynucleotide residing in the nucleus of the eukaryotic cell. The target polynucleotide can be a sequence coding a gene product (e.g., a protein) or a non-coding sequence (e.g., a regulatory polynucleotide or a junk DNA).

Gene Editing or Altering a Target Loci with Cas9; HDR and Templates

The double strand break or single strand break in one of the strands advantageously should be sufficiently close to target position such that correction occurs. In an embodiment, the distance is not more than 50, 100, 200, 300, 350 or 400 nucleotides. While not wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the break should be sufficiently close to target position such that the break is within the region that is subject to exonuclease-mediated removal during end resection. If the distance between the target position and a break is too great, the mutation may not be included in the end resection and, therefore, may not be corrected, as the template nucleic acid sequence may only be used to correct sequence within the end resection region.

In an embodiment, in which a guide RNA and a Type II molecule, in particular Cas9 or an ortholog or homolog thereof, preferably a Cas9 nuclease induce a double strand break for the purpose of inducing HDR-mediated correction, the cleavage site is between 0-200 bp (e.g., 0 to 175, 0 to 150, 0 to 125, 0 to 100, 0 to 75, 0 to 50, 0 to 25, 25 to 200, 25 to 175, 25 to 150, 25 to 125, 25 to 100, 25 to 75, 25 to 50, 50 to 200, 50 to 175, 50 to 150, 50 to 125, 50 to 100, 50 to 75, 75 to 200, 75 to 175, 75 to 150, 75 to 1 25, 75 to 100 bp) away from the target position. In an embodiment, the cleavage site is between 0-100 bp (e.g., 0 to 75, 0 to 50, 0 to 25, 25 to 100, 25 to 75, 25 to 50, 50 to 100, 50 to 75 or 75 to 100 bp) away from the target position. In a further embodiment, two or more guide RNAs complexing with Cas9 or an ortholog or homolog thereof, may be used to induce multiplexed breaks for purpose of inducing HDR-mediated correction.

The homology arm should extend at least as far as the region in which end resection may occur, e.g., in order to allow the resected single stranded overhang to find a complementary region within the donor template. The overall length could be limited by parameters such as plasmid size or viral packaging limits. In an embodiment, a homology arm may not extend into repeated elements. Exemplary homology arm lengths include a least 50, 100, 250, 500, 750 or 1000 nucleotides.

Target position, as used herein, refers to a site on a target nucleic acid or target gene (e.g., the chromosome) that is modified by a Type II, in particular Cas9 or an ortholog or homolog thereof, preferably Cas9 molecule-dependent process. For example, the target position can be a modified Cas9 molecule cleavage of the target nucleic acid and template nucleic acid directed modification, e.g., correction, of the target position. In an embodiment, a target position can be a site between two nucleotides, e.g., adjacent nucleotides, on the target nucleic acid into which one or more nucleotides is added. The target position may comprise one or more nucleotides that are altered, e.g., corrected, by a template nucleic acid. In an embodiment, the target position is within a target sequence (e.g., the sequence to which the guide RNA binds). In an embodiment, a target position is upstream or downstream of a target sequence (e.g., the sequence to which the guide RNA binds).

A template nucleic acid, as that term is used herein, refers to a nucleic acid sequence which can be used in conjunction with a Type II molecule, in particular Cas9 or an ortholog or homolog thereof, preferably a Cas9 molecule and a guide RNA molecule to alter the structure of a target position. In an embodiment, the target nucleic acid is modified to have some or all of the sequence of the template nucleic acid, typically at or near cleavage site(s). In an embodiment, the template nucleic acid is single stranded. In an alternate embodiment, the template nucleic acid is double stranded. In an embodiment, the template nucleic acid is DNA, e.g., double stranded DNA. In an alternate embodiment, the template nucleic acid is single stranded DNA.

In an embodiment, the template nucleic acid alters the structure of the target position by participating in homologous recombination. In an embodiment, the template nucleic acid alters the sequence of the target position. In an embodiment, the template nucleic acid results in the incorporation of a modified, or non-naturally occurring base into the target nucleic acid.

The template sequence may undergo a breakage mediated or catalyzed recombination with the target sequence. In an embodiment, the template nucleic acid may include sequence that corresponds to a site on the target sequence that is cleaved by a Cas9 mediated cleavage event. In an embodiment, the template nucleic acid may include sequence that corresponds to both, a first site on the target sequence that is cleaved in a first Cas9 mediated event, and a second site on the target sequence that is cleaved in a second Cas9 mediated event.

In certain embodiments, the template nucleic acid can include sequence which results in an alteration in the coding sequence of a translated sequence, e.g., one which results in the substitution of one amino acid for another in a protein product, e.g., transforming a mutant allele into a wild type allele, transforming a wild type allele into a mutant allele, and/or introducing a stop codon, insertion of an amino acid residue, deletion of an amino acid residue, or a nonsense mutation. In certain embodiments, the template nucleic acid can include sequence which results in an alteration in a non-coding sequence, e.g., an alteration in an exon or in a 5′ or 3′ non-translated or non-transcribed region. Such alterations include an alteration in a control element, e.g., a promoter, enhancer, and an alteration in a cis-acting or trans-acting control element.

A template nucleic acid having homology with a target position in a target gene may be used to alter the structure of a target sequence. The template sequence may be used to alter an unwanted structure, e.g., an unwanted or mutant nucleotide. The template nucleic acid may include sequence which, when integrated, results in: decreasing the activity of a positive control element; increasing the activity of a positive control element; decreasing the activity of a negative control element; increasing the activity of a negative control element; decreasing the expression of a gene; increasing the expression of a gene; increasing resistance to a disorder or disease; increasing resistance to viral entry; correcting a mutation or altering an unwanted amino acid residue conferring, increasing, abolishing or decreasing a biological property of a gene product, e.g., increasing the enzymatic activity of an enzyme, or increasing the ability of a gene product to interact with another molecule.

The template nucleic acid may include sequence which results in: a change in sequence of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 or more nucleotides of the target sequence. In an embodiment, the template nucleic acid may be 20+/−10, 30+/−10, 40+/−10, 50+/−10, 60+/−10, 70+/−10, 80+/−10, 90+/−10, 100+/−10, 1 10+/−10, 120+/−10, 130+/−10, 140+/−10, 150+/−10, 160+/−10, 170+/−10, 1 80+/−10, 190+/−10, 200+/−10, 210+/−10, of 220+/−10 nucleotides in length. In an embodiment, the template nucleic acid may be 30+/−20, 40+/−20, 50+/−20, 60+/−20, 70+/−20, 80+/−20, 90+/−20, 100+/−20, 1 10+/−20, 120+/−20, 130+/−20, 140+/−20, I 50+/−20, 160+/−20, 170+/−20, 180+/−20, 190+/−20, 200+/−20, 210+/−20, of 220+/−20 nucleotides in length. In an embodiment, the template nucleic acid is 10 to 1,000, 20 to 900, 30 to 800, 40 to 700, 50 to 600, 50 to 500, 50 to 400, 50 to 300, 50 to 200, or 50 to 100 nucleotides in length.

A template nucleic acid comprises the following components: [5′ homology arm]-[replacement sequence]-[3′ homology arm]. The homology arms provide for recombination into the chromosome, thus replacing the undesired element, e.g., a mutation or signature, with the replacement sequence. In an embodiment, the homology arms flank the most distal cleavage sites. In an embodiment, the 3′ end of the 5′ homology arm is the position next to the 5′ end of the replacement sequence. In an embodiment, the 5′ homology arm can extend at least 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1500, or 2000 nucleotides 5′ from the 5′ end of the replacement sequence. In an embodiment, the 5′ end of the 3′ homology arm is the position next to the 3′ end of the replacement sequence. In an embodiment, the 3′ homology arm can extend at least 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1500, or 2000 nucleotides 3′ from the 3′ end of the replacement sequence.

In certain embodiments, one or both homology arms may be shortened to avoid including certain sequence repeat elements. For example, a 5′ homology arm may be shortened to avoid a sequence repeat element. In other embodiments, a 3′ homology arm may be shortened to avoid a sequence repeat element. In some embodiments, both the 5′ and the 3′ homology arms may be shortened to avoid including certain sequence repeat elements.

In certain embodiments, a template nucleic acids for correcting a mutation may designed for use as a single-stranded oligonucleotide. When using a single-stranded oligonucleotide, 5′ and 3′ homology arms may range up to about 200 base pairs (bp) in length, e.g., at least 25, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150, 175, or 200 bp in length.

DNA Repair and NHEJ

In certain embodiments, nuclease-induced non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) can be used to target gene-specific knockouts. Nuclease-induced NHEJ can also be used to remove (e.g., delete) sequence in a gene of interest. Generally, NHEJ repairs a double-strand break in the DNA by joining together the two ends; however, generally, the original sequence is restored only if two compatible ends, exactly as they were formed by the double-strand break, are perfectly ligated. The DNA ends of the double-strand break are frequently the subject of enzymatic processing, resulting in the addition or removal of nucleotides, at one or both strands, prior to rejoining of the ends. This results in the presence of insertion and/or deletion (indel) mutations in the DNA sequence at the site of the NHEJ repair. Two-thirds of these mutations typically alter the reading frame and, therefore, produce a non-functional protein. Additionally, mutations that maintain the reading frame, but which insert or delete a significant amount of sequence, can destroy functionality of the protein. This is locus dependent as mutations in critical functional domains are likely less tolerable than mutations in non-critical regions of the protein. The indel mutations generated by NHEJ are unpredictable in nature; however, at a given break site certain indel sequences are favored and are over represented in the population, likely due to small regions of microhomology. The lengths of deletions can vary widely; most commonly in the 1-50 bp range, but they can easily be greater than 50 bp, e.g., they can easily reach greater than about 100-200 bp. Insertions tend to be shorter and often include short duplications of the sequence immediately surrounding the break site. However, it is possible to obtain large insertions, and in these cases, the inserted sequence has often been traced to other regions of the genome or to plasmid DNA present in the cells.

Because NHEJ is a mutagenic process, it may also be used to delete small sequence motifs as long as the generation of a specific final sequence is not required. If a double-strand break is targeted near to a short target sequence, the deletion mutations caused by the NHEJ repair often span, and therefore remove, the unwanted nucleotides. For the deletion of larger DNA segments, introducing two double-strand breaks, one on each side of the sequence, can result in NHEJ between the ends with removal of the entire intervening sequence. Both of these approaches can be used to delete specific DNA sequences; however, the error-prone nature of NHEJ may still produce indel mutations at the site of repair.

Both double strand cleaving Type II molecule, in particular Cas9 or an ortholog or homolog thereof, preferably Cas9 molecules and single strand, or nickase, Type II molecule, in particular Cas9 or an ortholog or homolog thereof, preferably Cas9 molecules can be used in the methods and compositions described herein to generate NHEJ-mediated indels. NHEJ-mediated indels targeted to the gene, e.g., a coding region, e.g., an early coding region of a gene of interest can be used to knockout (i.e., eliminate expression of) a gene of interest. For example, early coding region of a gene of interest includes sequence immediately following a transcription start site, within a first exon of the coding sequence, or within 500 bp of the transcription start site (e.g., less than 500, 450, 400, 350, 300, 250, 200, 150, 100 or 50 bp).

In an embodiment, in which a guide RNA and Type II molecule, in particular Cas9 or an ortholog or homolog thereof, preferably Cas9 nuclease generate a double strand break for the purpose of inducing NHEJ-mediated indels, a guide RNA may be configured to position one double-strand break in close proximity to a nucleotide of the target position. In an embodiment, the cleavage site may be between 0-500 bp away from the target position (e.g., less than 500, 400, 300, 200, 100, 50, 40, 30, 25, 20, 15, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2 or 1 bp from the target position).

In an embodiment, in which two guide RNAs complexing with Type II molecules, in particular Cas9 or an ortholog or homolog thereof, preferably Cas9 nickases induce two single strand breaks for the purpose of inducing NHEJ-mediated indels, two guide RNAs may be configured to position two single-strand breaks to provide for NHEJ repair a nucleotide of the target position.

Delivery of Functional Effectors

Unlike CRISPR-Cas-mediated gene knockout, which permanently eliminates expression by mutating the gene at the DNA level, CRISPR-Cas knockdown allows for temporary reduction of gene expression through the use of artificial transcription factors. Mutating key residues in both DNA cleavage domains of the Cas9 protein results in the generation of a catalytically inactive Cas9. A catalytically inactive Cas9 complexes with a guide RNA and localizes to the DNA sequence specified by that guide RNA's targeting domain, however, it does not cleave the target DNA. Fusion of the inactive Cas9 protein to an effector domain, e.g., a transcription repression domain, enables recruitment of the effector to any DNA site specified by the guide RNA. In certain embodiments, Cas9 may be fused to a transcriptional repression domain and recruited to the promoter region of a gene. Especially for gene repression, it is contemplated herein that blocking the binding site of an endogenous transcription factor would aid in downregulating gene expression. In another embodiment, an inactive Cas9 can be fused to a chromatin modifying protein. Altering chromatin status can result in decreased expression of the target gene.

In an embodiment, a guide RNA molecule can be targeted to a known transcription response elements (e.g., promoters, enhancers, etc.), a known upstream activating sequences, and/or sequences of unknown or known function that are suspected of being able to control expression of the target DNA.

In some methods, a target polynucleotide can be inactivated to effect the modification of the expression in a cell. For example, upon the binding of a CRISPR complex to a target sequence in a cell, the target polynucleotide is inactivated such that the sequence is not transcribed, the coded protein is not produced, or the sequence does not function as the wild-type sequence does. For example, a protein or microRNA coding sequence may be inactivated such that the protein is not produced.

In certain embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme comprises one or more mutations selected from the group consisting of D917A, E1006A and D1225A and/or the one or more mutations is in a RuvC domain of the CRISPR enzyme or is a mutation as otherwise as discussed herein. In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme has one or more mutations in a catalytic domain, wherein when transcribed, the direct repeat sequence forms a single stem loop and the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR complex to the target sequence, and wherein the enzyme further comprises a functional domain. In some embodiments, the functional domain is a transcriptional activation domain, preferably VP64. In some embodiments, the functional domain is a transcription repression domain, preferably KRAB. In some embodiments, the transcription repression domain is SID, or concatemers of SID (eg SID4×). In some embodiments, the functional domain is an epigenetic modifying domain, such that an epigenetic modifying enzyme is provided. In some embodiments, the functional domain is an activation domain, which may be the P65 activation domain.

Functional Effectors (Domains)

Gene editing may be performed with a Cas9 of the invention. The Cas9 may be inactivated and fused to one or more functional domain (effector).

In some embodiments, the functional domain may be selected from the group consisting of: transposase domain, integrase domain, recombinase domain, resolvase domain, invertase domain, protease domain, DNA methyltransferase domain, DNA hydroxylmethylase domain, DNA demethylase domain, histone acetylase domain, histone deacetylases domain, nuclease domain, repressor domain, activator domain, nuclear-localization signal domains, transcription-regulatory protein (or transcription complex recruiting) domain, cellular uptake activity associated domain, nucleic acid binding domain, antibody presentation domain, histone modifying enzymes, recruiter of histone modifying enzymes; inhibitor of histone modifying enzymes, histone methyltransferase, histone demethylase, histone kinase, histone phosphatase, histone ribosylase, histone deribosylase, histone ubiquitinase, histone deubiquitinase, histone biotinase and histone tail protease.

In some preferred embodiments, the functional domain is a transcriptional activation domain, preferably VP64. In some embodiments, the functional domain is a transcription repression domain, preferably KRAB. In some embodiments, the transcription repression domain is SID, or concatemers of SID (eg SID4×). In some embodiments, the functional domain is an epigenetic modifying domain, such that an epigenetic modifying enzyme is provided. In some embodiments, the functional domain is an activation domain, which may be the P65 activation domain.

Gene Targeting in Non-Dividing Cells (Neurons & Muscle)

Non-dividing (especially non-dividing, fully differentiated) cell types, including muscle cells and especially neurons, present issues for gene targeting or genome engineering, for example because homologous recombination (HR) is generally suppressed in the G1 cell-cycle phase. However, while studying the mechanisms by which cells control normal DNA repair systems, Orthwein et al. have reported on a previously unknown switch that keeps HR “off” in non-dividing cells and they devised a strategy to toggle this switch back on. Orthwein et al. (Daniel Durocher's lab at the Mount Sinai Hospital in Ottawa, Canada, reporting in Nature 16142, published online 9 Dec. 2015) have shown that the suppression of HR can be lifted and gene targeting successfully concluded in both kidney (293T) and osteosarcoma (U2OS) cells. Tumor suppressors, BRCA1, PALB2 and BRAC2 are known to promote DNA DSB repair by HR. They found that formation of a complex of BRCA1 with PALB2-BRAC2 is governed by a ubiquitin site on PALB2, such that action on the site by an E3 ubiquitin ligase. This E3 ubiquitin ligase is composed of KEAP1 (a PALB2-interacting protein) in complex with cullin-3 (CUL3)-RBX1. PALB2 ubiquitylation suppresses its interaction with BRCA1 and is counteracted by the deubiquitylase USP11, which is itself under cell cycle control. Restoration of the BRCA1-PALB2 interaction combined with the activation of DNA-end resection is sufficient to induce homologous recombination in G1, as measured by a number of methods including a CRISPR-Cas9-based gene-targeting assay directed at USP11 or KEAP1 (expressed from a pX459 vector). However, when the BRCA1-PALB2 interaction was restored in resection-competent G1 cells using either KEAP1 depletion or expression of the PALB2-KR mutant, a robust increase in gene-targeting events was detected.

Thus, reactivation of HR in cells, especially non-dividing, fully differentiated cell types, including muscle cells and especially neurons, is preferred, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, promotion of the BRCA1-PALB2 interaction is preferred in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the target cell is a non-dividing cell. In some embodiments, the target cell is a neuron or muscle cell. In some embodiments, the target cell is targeted in vivo. In some embodiments, the cell is in G1 and HR is suppressed.

In some embodiments, use of KEAP1 depletion, for example inhibition of expression of KEAP1 activity, is preferred. KEAP1 depletion may be achieved through siRNA, for example as shown in Orthwein et al. Alternatively, expression of the PALB2-KR mutant (lacking all eight Lys residues in the BRCA1-interaction domain is preferred, either in combination with KEAP1 depletion or alone.

PALB2-KR interacts with BRCA1 irrespective of cell cycle position. Thus, promotion or restoration of the BRCA1-PALB2 interaction, especially in G1 cells, is preferred in some embodiments, especially where the target cells are non-dividing, or where removal and return (ex vivo gene targeting) is problematic, for example neurone or muscle cells. KEAP1 siRNA is preferred and is available from ThermoFischer.

In some embodiments, a BRCA1-PALB2 complex may be delivered to the G1 cell, either as a protein complex, a fusion protein, polynucleotides encoding BRCA1 and PALB2 or polynucleotides encoding a BRCA1-PALB2 fusion protein. Such polynucleotides may be under the control of a suitable promoter, for example, and delivered as described herein either contemporaneously and optionally in the same vector or vector system as the CRISPR protein, or separately. Other possibilities to promote HR in non-dividing, fully differentiated) cell types, including muscle cells and especially neurons, may include direct delivery of PALB2 (using Cas9 fused to an affinity molecule for PALB2); and/or direct delivery of BRCA2 (using Cas9 fused to an affinity molecule for BRCA2).

In some embodiments, PALB2 deubiquitylation may be promoted for example by increased expression or activity of the deubiquitylase USP11. As such, in some embodiments, it is envisaged that a construct may be provided to promote or up-regulate expression or activity of the deubiquitylase USP11.

A knockdown of CRL4 may also be used to render KEAP1 inactive or reduce its activity. For example, CRL4 siRNA may be used. Alternatively, MLN4924 (a pan CRL inhibitor) may also be used to inactivate KEAP1.

It is particularly preferred that knockout of 53BP is also provided, as it was suggested that this was needed to activate HDR (shown in Orthwein et al). Knockout of 53BP may also be achieved by siRNA.

Activating resection of DNA (creating 3′ overhangs either side of DNA double strand break) was also essential to activating HR in G1. This was done by delivering an ORF of the gene CtIP (or SAE2) with a mutation (T847E) that mimics an activating phosphorylation. Applicants now postulate that this requirement may be circumvented by using Cas9 double nickases to introduce 3′ overhangs (Hsu et al). Accordingly, such use of Cas9 double nickases to introduce 3′ overhangs is preferred in targeting non-dividing, fully differentiated) cell types, including muscle cells and especially neurons.

In one embodiment, this invention provides a method of cleaving a target polynucleotide. The method comprises using a CRISPR complex that binds to the target polynucleotide and effect cleavage of said target polynucleotide. Typically, the CRISPR complex of the invention, when introduced into a cell, creates a break (e.g., a single or a double strand break) in the genome sequence. For example, the method can be used to cleave a disease gene in a cell.

The break created by the CRISPR complex can be repaired by a repair processes such as the error prone non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) pathway or the high fidelity homologydirected repair (HDR). During these repair process, an exogenous polynucleotide template can be introduced into the genome sequence. In some methods, the HDR process is used to modify genome sequence. For example, an exogenous polynucleotide template comprising a sequence to be integrated flanked by an upstream sequence and a downstream sequence is introduced into a cell. The upstream and downstream sequences share sequence similarity with either side of the site of integration in the chromosome.

Where desired, a donor polynucleotide can be DNA, e.g., a DNA plasmid, a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC), a yeast artificial chromosome (YAC), a viral vector, a linear piece of DNA, a PCR fragment, a naked nucleic acid, or a nucleic acid complexed with a delivery vehicle such as a liposome or poloxamer.

The exogenous polynucleotide template comprises a sequence to be integrated (e.g., a mutated gene). The sequence for integration may be a sequence endogenous or exogenous to the cell. Examples of a sequence to be integrated include polynucleotides encoding a protein or a non-coding RNA (e.g., a microRNA). Thus, the sequence for integration may be operably linked to an appropriate control sequence or sequences. Alternatively, the sequence to be integrated may provide a regulatory function.

The upstream and downstream sequences in the exogenous polynucleotide template are selected to promote recombination between the chromosomal sequence of interest and the donor polynucleotide. The upstream sequence is a nucleic acid sequence that shares sequence similarity with the genome sequence upstream of the targeted site for integration. Similarly, the downstream sequence is a nucleic acid sequence that shares sequence similarity with the chromosomal sequence downstream of the targeted site of integration. The upstream and downstream sequences in the exogenous polynucleotide template can have 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% sequence identity with the targeted genome sequence. Preferably, the upstream and downstream sequences in the exogenous polynucleotide template have about 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity with the targeted genome sequence. In some methods, the upstream and downstream sequences in the exogenous polynucleotide template have about 99% or 100% sequence identity with the targeted genome sequence.

An upstream or downstream sequence may comprise from about 20 bp to about 2500 bp, for example, about 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200, 2300, 2400, or 2500 bp. In some methods, the exemplary upstream or downstream sequence have about 200 bp to about 2000 bp, about 600 bp to about 1000 bp, or more particularly about 700 bp to about 1000 bp.

In some methods, the exogenous polynucleotide template may further comprise a marker. Such a marker may make it easy to screen for targeted integrations. Examples of suitable markers include restriction sites, fluorescent proteins, or selectable markers. The exogenous polynucleotide template of the invention can be constructed using recombinant techniques (see, for example, Sambrook et al., 2001 and Ausubel et al., 1996).

In an exemplary method for modifying a target polynucleotide by integrating an exogenous polynucleotide template, a double stranded break is introduced into the genome sequence by the CRISPR complex, the break is repaired via homologous recombination an exogenous polynucleotide template such that the template is integrated into the genome. The presence of a double-stranded break facilitates integration of the template.

In other embodiments, this invention provides a method of modifying expression of a polynucleotide in a eukaryotic cell. The method comprises increasing or decreasing expression of a target polynucleotide by using a CRISPR complex that binds to the polynucleotide.

In some methods, a target polynucleotide can be inactivated to effect the modification of the expression in a cell. For example, upon the binding of a CRISPR complex to a target sequence in a cell, the target polynucleotide is inactivated such that the sequence is not transcribed, the coded protein is not produced, or the sequence does not function as the wild-type sequence does. For example, a protein or microRNA coding sequence may be inactivated such that the protein is not produced.

In some methods, a control sequence can be inactivated such that it no longer functions as a control sequence. As used herein, “control sequence” refers to any nucleic acid sequence that effects the transcription, translation, or accessibility of a nucleic acid sequence. Examples of a control sequence include, a promoter, a transcription terminator, and an enhancer are control sequences. The inactivated target sequence may include a deletion mutation (i.e., deletion of one or more nucleotides), an insertion mutation (i.e., insertion of one or more nucleotides), or a nonsense mutation (i.e., substitution of a single nucleotide for another nucleotide such that a stop codon is introduced). In some methods, the inactivation of a target sequence results in “knockout” of the target sequence.

Exemplary Methods of Using of CRISPR Cas System

The invention provides a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition, or one or more polynucleotides encoding components of said composition, or vector or delivery systems comprising one or more polynucleotides encoding components of said composition for use in a modifying a target cell in vivo, ex vivo or in vitro and, may be conducted in a manner alters the cell such that once modified the progeny or cell line of the CRISPR modified cell retains the altered phenotype. The modified cells and progeny may be part of a multi-cellular organism such as a plant or animal with ex vivo or in vivo application of CRISPR system to desired cell types. The CRISPR invention may be a therapeutic method of treatment. The therapeutic method of treatment may comprise gene or genome editing, or gene therapy.

Modifying a Target with CRISPR-Cas System or Complex

In one aspect, the invention provides for methods of modifying a target polynucleotide in a eukaryotic cell, which may be in vivo, ex vivo or in vitro. In some embodiments, the method comprises sampling a cell or population of cells from a human or non-human animal, and modifying the cell or cells. Culturing may occur at any stage ex vivo. The cell or cells may even be re-introduced into the non-human animal or plant. For re-introduced cells it is particularly preferred that the cells are stem cells.

In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a CRISPR complex to bind to the target polynucleotide to effect cleavage of said target polynucleotide thereby modifying the target polynucleotide, wherein the CRISPR complex comprises a CRISPR enzyme complexed with a guide sequence hybridized or hybridizable to a target sequence within said target polynucleotide, wherein said guide sequence is linked to a tracr mate sequence which in turn hybridizes to a tracr sequence.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method of modifying expression of a polynucleotide in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a CRISPR complex to bind to the polynucleotide such that said binding results in increased or decreased expression of said polynucleotide; wherein the CRISPR complex comprises a CRISPR enzyme complexed with a guide sequence hybridized or hybridizable to a target sequence within said polynucleotide, wherein said guide sequence is linked to a tracr mate sequence which in turn hybridizes to a tracr sequence. Similar considerations and conditions apply as above for methods of modifying a target polynucleotide. In fact, these sampling, culturing and re-introduction options apply across the aspects of the present invention.

Indeed, in any aspect of the invention, the CRISPR complex may comprise a CRISPR enzyme complexed with a guide sequence hybridized or hybridizable to a target sequence, wherein said guide sequence may be linked to a tracr mate sequence which in turn may hybridize to a tracr sequence. Similar considerations and conditions apply as above for methods of modifying a target polynucleotide.

Thus in any of the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes described herein comprise at least one modification and whereby the enzyme has certain improved capabilities. In particular, any of the enzymes are capable of forming a CRISPR complex with a guide RNA. When such a complex forms, the guide RNA is capable of binding to a target polynucleotide sequence and the enzyme is capable of modifying a target locus. In addition, the enzyme in the CRISPR complex has reduced capability of modifying one or more off-target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme.

In addition, the modified CRISPR enzymes described herein encompass enzymes whereby in the CRISPR complex the enzyme has increased capability of modifying the one or more target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme. Such function may be provided separate to or provided in combination with the above-described function of reduced capability of modifying one or more off-target loci. Any such enzymes may be provided with any of the further modifications to the CRISPR enzyme as described herein, such as in combination with any activity provided by one or more associated heterologous functional domains, any further mutations to reduce nuclease activity and the like.

In advantageous embodiments of the invention, the modified CRISPR enzyme is provided with reduced capability of modifying one or more off-target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme and increased capability of modifying the one or more target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme. In combination with further modifications to the enzyme, significantly enhanced specificity may be achieved. For example, combination of such advantageous embodiments with one or more additional mutations is provided wherein the one or more additional mutations are in one or more catalytically active domains. Such further catalytic mutations may confer nickase functionality as described in detail elsewhere herein. In such enzymes, enhanced specificity may be achieved due to an improved specificity in terms of enzyme activity.

Modifications to reduce off-target effects and/or enhance on-target effects as described above may be made to amino acid residues located in a positively-charged region/groove situated between the RuvC-III and HNH domains. It will be appreciated that any of the functional effects described above may be achieved by modification of amino acids within the aforementioned groove but also by modification of amino acids adjacent to or outside of that groove.

Additional functionalities which may be engineered into modified CRISPR enzymes as described herein include the following. 1. modified CRISPR enzymes that disrupt DNA:protein interactions without affecting protein tertiary or secondary structure. This includes residues that contact any part of the RNA:DNA duplex. 2. modified CRISPR enzymes that weaken intra-protein interactions holding Cas9 in conformation essential for nuclease cutting in response to DNA binding (on or off target). For example: a modification that mildly inhibits, but still allows, the nuclease conformation of the HNH domain (positioned at the scissile phosphate). 3. modified CRISPR enzymes that strengthen intra-protein interactions holding Cas9 in a conformation inhibiting nuclease activity in response to DNA binding (on or off targets). For example: a modification that stabilizes the HNH domain in a conformation away from the scissile phosphate. Any such additional functional enhancement may be provided in combination with any other modification to the CRISPR enzyme as described in detail elsewhere herein.

Any of the herein described improved functionalities may be made to any CRISPR enzyme, such as a Cas9 enzyme. Cas9 enzymes described herein are derived from Cas9 enzymes from S. pyogenes and S. aureus. However, it will be appreciated that any of the functionalities described herein may be engineered into Cas9 enzymes from other orthologs, including chimeric enzymes comprising fragments from multiple orthologs. Examples of such orthologs may be found e.g. in FIGS. 8 and 9 as described herein.

The invention uses nucleic acids to bind target DNA sequences. This is advantageous as nucleic acids are much easier and cheaper to produce than proteins, and the specificity can be varied according to the length of the stretch where homology is sought. Complex 3-D positioning of multiple fingers, for example is not required. The terms “polynucleotide”, “nucleotide”, “nucleotide sequence”, “nucleic acid” and “oligonucleotide” are used interchangeably. They refer to a polymeric form of nucleotides of any length, either deoxyribonucleotides or ribonucleotides, or analogs thereof. Polynucleotides may have any three dimensional structure, and may perform any function, known or unknown. The following are non-limiting examples of polynucleotides: coding or non-coding regions of a gene or gene fragment, loci (locus) defined from linkage analysis, exons, introns, messenger RNA (mRNA), transfer RNA, ribosomal RNA, short interfering RNA (siRNA), short-hairpin RNA (shRNA), micro-RNA (miRNA), ribozymes, cDNA, recombinant polynucleotides, branched polynucleotides, plasmids, vectors, isolated DNA of any sequence, isolated RNA of any sequence, nucleic acid probes, and primers. The term also encompasses nucleic-acid-like structures with synthetic backbones, see, e.g., Eckstein, 1991; Baserga et al., 1992; Milligan, 1993; WO 97/03211; WO 96/39154; Mata, 1997; Strauss-Soukup, 1997; and Samstag, 1996. A polynucleotide may comprise one or more modified nucleotides, such as methylated nucleotides and nucleotide analogs. If present, modifications to the nucleotide structure may be imparted before or after assembly of the polymer. The sequence of nucleotides may be interrupted by non-nucleotide components. A polynucleotide may be further modified after polymerization, such as by conjugation with a labeling component. As used herein the term “wild type” is a term of the art understood by skilled persons and means the typical form of an organism, strain, gene or characteristic as it occurs in nature as distinguished from mutant or variant forms. A “wild type” can be a base line. As used herein the term “variant” should be taken to mean the exhibition of qualities that have a pattern that deviates from what occurs in nature. The terms “non-naturally occurring” or “engineered” are used interchangeably and indicate the involvement of the hand of man. The terms, when referring to nucleic acid molecules or polypeptides mean that the nucleic acid molecule or the polypeptide is at least substantially free from at least one other component with which they are naturally associated in nature and as found in nature. “Complementarity” refers to the ability of a nucleic acid to form hydrogen bond(s) with another nucleic acid sequence by either traditional Watson-Crick base pairing or other non-traditional types. A percent complementarity indicates the percentage of residues in a nucleic acid molecule which can form hydrogen bonds (e.g., Watson-Crick base pairing) with a second nucleic acid sequence (e.g., 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 out of 10 being 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, and 100% complementary). “Perfectly complementary” means that all the contiguous residues of a nucleic acid sequence will hydrogen bond with the same number of contiguous residues in a second nucleic acid sequence. “Substantially complementary” as used herein refers to a degree of complementarity that is at least 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% over a region of 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or more nucleotides, or refers to two nucleic acids that hybridize under stringent conditions. As used herein, “stringent conditions” for hybridization refer to conditions under which a nucleic acid having complementarity to a target sequence predominantly hybridizes with the target sequence, and substantially does not hybridize to non-target sequences. Stringent conditions are generally sequence-dependent, and vary depending on a number of factors. In general, the longer the sequence, the higher the temperature at which the sequence specifically hybridizes to its target sequence. Non-limiting examples of stringent conditions are in detail in Tijssen (1993), Laboratory Techniques In Biochemistry And Molecular Biology-Hybridization With Nucleic Acid Probes Part I, Second Chapter “Overview of principles of hybridization and the strategy of nucleic acid probe assay”, Elsevier, N.Y. Where reference is made to a polynucleotide sequence, then complementary or partially complementary sequences are also envisaged. These are preferably capable of hybridising to the reference sequence under highly stringent conditions. Generally, in order to maximize the hybridization rate, relatively low-stringency hybridization conditions are selected: about 20 to 25° C. lower than the thermal melting point (T_(m)). The T_(m) is the temperature at which 50% of specific target sequence hybridizes to a perfectly complementary probe in solution at a defined ionic strength and pH. Generally, in order to require at least about 85% nucleotide complementarity of hybridized sequences, highly stringent washing conditions are selected to be about 5 to 15° C. lower than the T_(m). In order to require at least about 70% nucleotide complementarity of hybridized sequences, moderately-stringent washing conditions are selected to be about 15 to 30° C. lower than the T_(m). Highly permissive (very low stringency) washing conditions may be as low as 50° C. below the T_(m), allowing a high level of mis-matching between hybridized sequences. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other physical and chemical parameters in the hybridization and wash stages can also be altered to affect the outcome of a detectable hybridization signal from a specific level of homology between target and probe sequences. Preferred highly stringent conditions comprise incubation in 50% formamide, 5×SSC, and 1% SDS at 42° C., or incubation in 5×SSC and 1% SDS at 65° C., with wash in 0.2×SSC and 0.1% SDS at 65° C. “Hybridization” refers to a reaction in which one or more polynucleotides react to form a complex that is stabilized via hydrogen bonding between the bases of the nucleotide residues. The hydrogen bonding may occur by Watson Crick base pairing, Hoogstein binding, or in any other sequence specific manner. The complex may comprise two strands forming a duplex structure, three or more strands forming a multi stranded complex, a single self-hybridizing strand, or any combination of these. A hybridization reaction may constitute a step in a more extensive process, such as the initiation of PCR, or the cleavage of a polynucleotide by an enzyme. A sequence capable of hybridizing with a given sequence is referred to as the “complement” of the given sequence. As used herein, the term “genomic locus” or “locus” (plural loci) is the specific location of a gene or DNA sequence on a chromosome. A “gene” refers to stretches of DNA or RNA that encode a polypeptide or an RNA chain that has functional role to play in an organism and hence is the molecular unit of heredity in living organisms. For the purpose of this invention it may be considered that genes include regions which regulate the production of the gene product, whether or not such regulatory sequences are adjacent to coding and/or transcribed sequences. Accordingly, a gene includes, but is not necessarily limited to, promoter sequences, terminators, translational regulatory sequences such as ribosome binding sites and internal ribosome entry sites, enhancers, silencers, insulators, boundary elements, replication origins, matrix attachment sites and locus control regions. As used herein, “expression of a genomic locus” or “gene expression” is the process by which information from a gene is used in the synthesis of a functional gene product. The products of gene expression are often proteins, but in non-protein coding genes such as rRNA genes or tRNA genes, the product is functional RNA. The process of gene expression is used by all known life—eukaryotes (including multicellular organisms), prokaryotes (bacteria and archaea) and viruses to generate functional products to survive. As used herein “expression” of a gene or nucleic acid encompasses not only cellular gene expression, but also the transcription and translation of nucleic acid(s) in cloning systems and in any other context. As used herein, “expression” also refers to the process by which a polynucleotide is transcribed from a DNA template (such as into and mRNA or other RNA transcript) and/or the process by which a transcribed mRNA is subsequently translated into peptides, polypeptides, or proteins. Transcripts and encoded polypeptides may be collectively referred to as “gene product.” If the polynucleotide is derived from genomic DNA, expression may include splicing of the mRNA in a eukaryotic cell. The terms “polypeptide”, “peptide” and “protein” are used interchangeably herein to refer to polymers of amino acids of any length. The polymer may be linear or branched, it may comprise modified amino acids, and it may be interrupted by non amino acids. The terms also encompass an amino acid polymer that has been modified; for example, disulfide bond formation, glycosylation, lipidation, acetylation, phosphorylation, or any other manipulation, such as conjugation with a labeling component. As used herein the term “amino acid” includes natural and/or unnatural or synthetic amino acids, including glycine and both the D or L optical isomers, and amino acid analogs and peptidomimetics. As used herein, the term “domain” or “protein domain” refers to a part of a protein sequence that may exist and function independently of the rest of the protein chain. As described in aspects of the invention, sequence identity is related to sequence homology. Homology comparisons may be conducted by eye, or more usually, with the aid of readily available sequence comparison programs. These commercially available computer programs may calculate percent (%) homology between two or more sequences and may also calculate the sequence identity shared by two or more amino acid or nucleic acid sequences. In some preferred embodiments, the capping region of the dTALEs described herein have sequences that are at least 95% identical or share identity to the capping region amino acid sequences provided herein. Sequence homologies may be generated by any of a number of computer programs known in the art, for example BLAST or FASTA, etc. A suitable computer program for carrying out such an alignment is the GCG Wisconsin Bestfit package (University of Wisconsin, U.S.A; Devereux et al., 1984, Nucleic Acids Research 12:387). Examples of other software than may perform sequence comparisons include, but are not limited to, the BLAST package (see Ausubel et al., 1999 ibid—Chapter 18), FASTA (Atschul et al., 1990, J. Mol. Biol., 403-410) and the GENEWORKS suite of comparison tools. Both BLAST and FASTA are available for offline and online searching (see Ausubel et al., 1999 ibid, pages 7-58 to 7-60). However it is preferred to use the GCG Bestfit program. Percentage (%) sequence homology may be calculated over contiguous sequences, i.e., one sequence is aligned with the other sequence and each amino acid or nucleotide in one sequence is directly compared with the corresponding amino acid or nucleotide in the other sequence, one residue at a time. This is called an “ungapped” alignment. Typically, such ungapped alignments are performed only over a relatively short number of residues. Although this is a very simple and consistent method, it fails to take into consideration that, for example, in an otherwise identical pair of sequences, one insertion or deletion may cause the following amino acid residues to be put out of alignment, thus potentially resulting in a large reduction in % homology when a global alignment is performed. Consequently, most sequence comparison methods are designed to produce optimal alignments that take into consideration possible insertions and deletions without unduly penalizing the overall homology or identity score. This is achieved by inserting “gaps” in the sequence alignment to try to maximize local homology or identity. However, these more complex methods assign “gap penalties” to each gap that occurs in the alignment so that, for the same number of identical amino acids, a sequence alignment with as few gaps as possible—reflecting higher relatedness between the two compared sequences—may achieve a higher score than one with many gaps. “Affinity gap costs” are typically used that charge a relatively high cost for the existence of a gap and a smaller penalty for each subsequent residue in the gap. This is the most commonly used gap scoring system. High gap penalties may, of course, produce optimized alignments with fewer gaps. Most alignment programs allow the gap penalties to be modified. However, it is preferred to use the default values when using such software for sequence comparisons. For example, when using the GCG Wisconsin Bestfit package the default gap penalty for amino acid sequences is −12 for a gap and −4 for each extension. Calculation of maximum % homology therefore first requires the production of an optimal alignment, taking into consideration gap penalties. A suitable computer program for carrying out such an alignment is the GCG Wisconsin Bestfit package (Devereux et al., 1984 Nuc. Acids Research 12 p387). Examples of other software than may perform sequence comparisons include, but are not limited to, the BLAST package (see Ausubel et al., 1999 Short Protocols in Molecular Biology, 4^(th) Ed. —Chapter 18), FASTA (Altschul et al., 1990 J Mol. Biol. 403-410) and the GENEWORKS suite of comparison tools. Both BLAST and FASTA are available for offline and online searching (see Ausubel et al., 1999, Short Protocols in Molecular Biology, pages 7-58 to 7-60). However, for some applications, it is preferred to use the GCG Bestfit program. A new tool, called BLAST 2 Sequences is also available for comparing protein and nucleotide sequences (see FEMS Microbiol Lett. 1999 174(2): 247-50; FEMS Microbiol Lett. 1999 177(1): 187-8 and the website of the National Center for Biotechnology information at the website of the National Institutes for Health). Although the final % homology may be measured in terms of identity, the alignment process itself is typically not based on an all-or-nothing pair comparison. Instead, a scaled similarity score matrix is generally used that assigns scores to each pair-wise comparison based on chemical similarity or evolutionary distance. An example of such a matrix commonly used is the BLOSUM62 matrix—the default matrix for the BLAST suite of programs. GCG Wisconsin programs generally use either the public default values or a custom symbol comparison table, if supplied (see user manual for further details). For some applications, it is preferred to use the public default values for the GCG package, or in the case of other software, the default matrix, such as BLOSUM62. Alternatively, percentage homologies may be calculated using the multiple alignment feature in DNASIS™ (Hitachi Software), based on an algorithm, analogous to CLUSTAL (Higgins D G & Sharp P M (1988), Gene 73(1), 237-244). Once the software has produced an optimal alignment, it is possible to calculate % homology, preferably % sequence identity. The software typically does this as part of the sequence comparison and generates a numerical result. The sequences may also have deletions, insertions or substitutions of amino acid residues which produce a silent change and result in a functionally equivalent substance. Deliberate amino acid substitutions may be made on the basis of similarity in amino acid properties (such as polarity, charge, solubility, hydrophobicity, hydrophilicity, and/or the amphipathic nature of the residues) and it is therefore useful to group amino acids together in functional groups. Amino acids may be grouped together based on the properties of their side chains alone. However, it is more useful to include mutation data as well. The sets of amino acids thus derived are likely to be conserved for structural reasons. These sets may be described in the form of a Venn diagram (Livingstone C. D. and Barton G. J. (1993) “Protein sequence alignments: a strategy for the hierarchical analysis of residue conservation” Comput. Appl. Biosci. 9: 745-756) (Taylor W. R. (1986) “The classification of amino acid conservation” J. Theor. Biol. 119; 205-218). Conservative substitutions may be made, for example according to the table below which describes a generally accepted Venn diagram grouping of amino acids.

Set Sub-set Hydrophobic FWYHKMILVAGC Aromatic FWYH Aliphatic ILV Polar WYHKREDCSTNQ Charged HKRED Positively HKR charged Negatively ED charged Small VCAGSPTND Tiny AGS

Embodiments of the invention include sequences (both polynucleotide or polypeptide) which may comprise homologous substitution (substitution and replacement are both used herein to mean the interchange of an existing amino acid residue or nucleotide, with an alternative residue or nucleotide) that may occur i.e., like-for-like substitution in the case of amino acids such as basic for basic, acidic for acidic, polar for polar, etc. Non-homologous substitution may also occur i.e., from one class of residue to another or alternatively involving the inclusion of unnatural amino acids such as ornithine (hereinafter referred to as Z), diaminobutyric acid ornithine (hereinafter referred to as B), norleucine ornithine (hereinafter referred to as O), pyriylalanine, thienylalanine, naphthylalanine and phenylglycine. Variant amino acid sequences may include suitable spacer groups that may be inserted between any two amino acid residues of the sequence including alkyl groups such as methyl, ethyl or propyl groups in addition to amino acid spacers such as glycine or β-alanine residues. A further form of variation, which involves the presence of one or more amino acid residues in peptoid form, may be well understood by those skilled in the art. For the avoidance of doubt, “the peptoid form” is used to refer to variant amino acid residues wherein the α-carbon substituent group is on the residue's nitrogen atom rather than the α-carbon. Processes for preparing peptides in the peptoid form are known in the art, for example Simon R J et al., PNAS (1992) 89(20), 9367-9371 and Horwell D C, Trends Biotechnol. (1995) 13(4), 132-134.

Homology modelling: Corresponding residues in other Cas9 orthologs can be identified by the methods of Zhang et al., 2012 (Nature; 490(7421): 556-60) and Chen et al., 2015 (PLoS Comput Biol; 11(5): e1004248)—a computational protein-protein interaction (PPI) method to predict interactions mediated by domain-motif interfaces. PrePPI (Predicting PPI), a structure based PPI prediction method, combines structural evidence with non-structural evidence using a Bayesian statistical framework. The method involves taking a pair a query proteins and using structural alignment to identify structural representatives that correspond to either their experimentally determined structures or homology models. Structural alignment is further used to identify both close and remote structural neighbours by considering global and local geometric relationships. Whenever two neighbors of the structural representatives form a complex reported in the Protein Data Bank, this defines a template for modelling the interaction between the two query proteins. Models of the complex are created by superimposing the representative structures on their corresponding structural neighbour in the template. This approach is in Dey et al., 2013 (Prot Sci; 22: 359-66).

For purpose of this invention, amplification means any method employing a primer and a polymerase capable of replicating a target sequence with reasonable fidelity. Amplification may be carried out by natural or recombinant DNA polymerases such as TaqGold™, T7 DNA polymerase, Klenow fragment of E. coli DNA polymerase, and reverse transcriptase. A preferred amplification method is PCR.

In certain aspects the invention involves vectors. A used herein, a “vector” is a tool that allows or facilitates the transfer of an entity from one environment to another. It is a replicon, such as a plasmid, phage, or cosmid, into which another DNA segment may be inserted so as to bring about the replication of the inserted segment. Generally, a vector is capable of replication when associated with the proper control elements. In general, the term “vector” refers to a nucleic acid molecule capable of transporting another nucleic acid to which it has been linked. Vectors include, but are not limited to, nucleic acid molecules that are single-stranded, double-stranded, or partially double-stranded; nucleic acid molecules that comprise one or more free ends, no free ends (e.g. circular); nucleic acid molecules that comprise DNA, RNA, or both; and other varieties of polynucleotides known in the art. One type of vector is a “plasmid,” which refers to a circular double stranded DNA loop into which additional DNA segments can be inserted, such as by standard molecular cloning techniques. Another type of vector is a viral vector, wherein virally-derived DNA or RNA sequences are present in the vector for packaging into a virus (e.g. retroviruses, replication defective retroviruses, adenoviruses, replication defective adenoviruses, and adeno-associated viruses (AAVs)). Viral vectors also include polynucleotides carried by a virus for transfection into a host cell. Certain vectors are capable of autonomous replication in a host cell into which they are introduced (e.g. bacterial vectors having a bacterial origin of replication and episomal mammalian vectors). Other vectors (e.g., non-episomal mammalian vectors) are integrated into the genome of a host cell upon introduction into the host cell, and thereby are replicated along with the host genome. Moreover, certain vectors are capable of directing the expression of genes to which they are operatively-linked. Such vectors are referred to herein as “expression vectors.” Common expression vectors of utility in recombinant DNA techniques are often in the form of plasmids.

Recombinant expression vectors can comprise a nucleic acid of the invention in a form suitable for expression of the nucleic acid in a host cell, which means that the recombinant expression vectors include one or more regulatory elements, which may be selected on the basis of the host cells to be used for expression, that is operatively-linked to the nucleic acid sequence to be expressed. Within a recombinant expression vector, “operably linked” is intended to mean that the nucleotide sequence of interest is linked to the regulatory element(s) in a manner that allows for expression of the nucleotide sequence (e.g. in an in vitro transcription/translation system or in a host cell when the vector is introduced into the host cell). With regards to recombination and cloning methods, mention is made of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/815,730, published Sep. 2, 2004 as US 2004-0171156 A1, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Aspects of the invention relate to bicistronic vectors for chimeric RNA and modified or mutated CRISPR enzymes (e.g. Cas9). Bicistronic expression vectors for chimeric RNA and modified or mutated CRISPR enzymes are preferred. In general and particularly in this embodiment modified or mutated CRISPR enzymes are preferably driven by the CBh promoter. The chimeric RNA may preferably be driven by a Pol III promoter, such as a U6 promoter. Ideally the two are combined. The chimeric guide RNA typically consists of a 20 bp guide sequence (Ns) and this may be joined to the tracr sequence (running from the first “U” of the lower strand to the end of the transcript). The tracr sequence may be truncated at various positions as indicated. The guide and tracr sequences are separated by the tracr-mate sequence, which may be GUUUUAGAGCUA (SEQ ID NO: 54). This may be followed by the loop sequence GAAA as shown. Both of these are preferred examples. Applicants have demonstrated Cas9-mediated indels at the human EMX1 and PVALB loci by SURVEYOR assays. ChiRNAs are indicated by their “+n” designation, and crRNA refers to a hybrid RNA where guide and tracr sequences are expressed as separate transcripts. Throughout this application, chimeric RNA may also be called single guide, or synthetic guide RNA (sgRNA). The loop is preferably GAAA, but it is not limited to this sequence or indeed to being only 4 bp in length. Indeed, preferred loop forming sequences for use in hairpin structures are four nucleotides in length, and most preferably have the sequence GAAA. However, longer or shorter loop sequences may be used, as may alternative sequences. The sequences preferably include a nucleotide triplet (for example, AAA), and an additional nucleotide (for example C or G). Examples of loop forming sequences include CAAA and AAAG. In practicing any of the methods disclosed herein, a suitable vector can be introduced to a cell or an embryo via one or more methods known in the art, including without limitation, microinjection, electroporation, sonoporation, biolistics, calcium phosphate-mediated transfection, cationic transfection, liposome transfection, dendrimer transfection, heat shock transfection, nucleofection transfection, magnetofection, lipofection, impalefection, optical transfection, proprietary agent-enhanced uptake of nucleic acids, and delivery via liposomes, immunoliposomes, virosomes, or artificial virions. In some methods, the vector is introduced into an embryo by microinjection. The vector or vectors may be microinjected into the nucleus or the cytoplasm of the embryo. In some methods, the vector or vectors may be introduced into a cell by nucleofection.

The term “regulatory element” is intended to include promoters, enhancers, internal ribosomal entry sites (IRES), and other expression control elements (e.g. transcription termination signals, such as polyadenylation signals and poly-U sequences). Such regulatory elements are, for example, in Goeddel, GENE EXPRESSION TECHNOLOGY: METHODS IN ENZYMOLOGY 185, Academic Press, San Diego, Calif. (1990). Regulatory elements include those that direct constitutive expression of a nucleotide sequence in many types of host cell and those that direct expression of the nucleotide sequence only in certain host cells (e.g., tissue-specific regulatory sequences). A tissue-specific promoter may direct expression primarily in a desired tissue of interest, such as muscle, neuron, bone, skin, blood, specific organs (e.g. liver, pancreas), or particular cell types (e.g. lymphocytes). Regulatory elements may also direct expression in a temporal-dependent manner, such as in a cell-cycle dependent or developmental stage-dependent manner, which may or may not also be tissue or cell-type specific. In some embodiments, a vector comprises one or more pol III promoter (e.g. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more pol III promoters), one or more pol II promoters (e.g. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more pol II promoters), one or more pol I promoters (e.g. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more pol I promoters), or combinations thereof. Examples of pol III promoters include, but are not limited to, U6 and H1 promoters. Examples of pol II promoters include, but are not limited to, the retroviral Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) LTR promoter (optionally with the RSV enhancer), the cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter (optionally with the CMV enhancer) [see, e.g., Boshart et al, Cell, 41:521-530 (1985)], the SV40 promoter, the dihydrofolate reductase promoter, the β-actin promoter, the phosphoglycerol kinase (PGK) promoter, and the EF1α promoter. Also encompassed by the term “regulatory element” are enhancer elements, such as WPRE; CMV enhancers; the R-U5′ segment in LTR of HTLV-I (Mol. Cell. Biol., Vol. 8(1), p. 466-472, 1988); SV40 enhancer; and the intron sequence between exons 2 and 3 of rabbit β-globin (Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA., Vol. 78(3), p. 1527-31, 1981). It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the design of the expression vector can depend on such factors as the choice of the host cell to be transformed, the level of expression desired, etc. A vector can be introduced into host cells to thereby produce transcripts, proteins, or peptides, including fusion proteins or peptides, encoded by nucleic acids as described herein (e.g., clustered regularly interspersed short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) transcripts, proteins, enzymes, mutant forms thereof, fusion proteins thereof, etc.). With regards to regulatory sequences, mention is made of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/491,026, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. With regards to promoters, mention is made of PCT publication WO 2011/028929 and U.S. application Ser. No. 12/511,940, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

Vectors can be designed for expression of CRISPR transcripts (e.g. nucleic acid transcripts, proteins, or enzymes) in prokaryotic or eukaryotic cells. For example, CRISPR transcripts can be expressed in bacterial cells such as Escherichia coli, insect cells (using baculovirus expression vectors), yeast cells, or mammalian cells. Suitable host cells are discussed further in Goeddel, GENE EXPRESSION TECHNOLOGY: METHODS IN ENZYMOLOGY 185, Academic Press, San Diego, Calif. (1990). Alternatively, the recombinant expression vector can be transcribed and translated in vitro, for example using T7 promoter regulatory sequences and T7 polymerase.

Vectors may be introduced and propagated in a prokaryote or prokaryotic cell. In some embodiments, a prokaryote is used to amplify copies of a vector to be introduced into a eukaryotic cell or as an intermediate vector in the production of a vector to be introduced into a eukaryotic cell (e.g. amplifying a plasmid as part of a viral vector packaging system). In some embodiments, a prokaryote is used to amplify copies of a vector and express one or more nucleic acids, such as to provide a source of one or more proteins for delivery to a host cell or host organism. Expression of proteins in prokaryotes is most often carried out in Escherichia coli with vectors containing constitutive or inducible promoters directing the expression of either fusion or non-fusion proteins. Fusion vectors add a number of amino acids to a protein encoded therein, such as to the amino terminus of the recombinant protein. Such fusion vectors may serve one or more purposes, such as: (i) to increase expression of recombinant protein; (ii) to increase the solubility of the recombinant protein; and (iii) to aid in the purification of the recombinant protein by acting as a ligand in affinity purification. Often, in fusion expression vectors, a proteolytic cleavage site is introduced at the junction of the fusion moiety and the recombinant protein to enable separation of the recombinant protein from the fusion moiety subsequent to purification of the fusion protein. Such enzymes, and their cognate recognition sequences, include Factor Xa, thrombin and enterokinase. Example fusion expression vectors include pGEX (Pharmacia Biotech Inc; Smith and Johnson, 1988. Gene 67: 31-40), pMAL (New England Biolabs, Beverly, Mass.) and pRIT5 (Pharmacia, Piscataway, N.J.) that fuse glutathione S-transferase (GST), maltose E binding protein, or protein A, respectively, to the target recombinant protein. Examples of suitable inducible non-fusion E. coli expression vectors include pTrc (Amrann et al., (1988) Gene 69:301-315) and pET 11d (Studier et al., GENE EXPRESSION TECHNOLOGY: METHODS IN ENZYMOLOGY 185, Academic Press, San Diego, Calif. (1990) 60-89). In some embodiments, a vector is a yeast expression vector. Examples of vectors for expression in yeast Saccharomyces cerivisae include pYepSec1 (Baldari, et al., 1987. EMBO J. 6: 229-234), pMFa (Kuijan and Herskowitz, 1982. Cell 30: 933-943), pJRY88 (Schultz et al., 1987. Gene 54: 113-123), pYES2 (Invitrogen Corporation, San Diego, Calif.), and picZ (InVitrogen Corp, San Diego, Calif.). In some embodiments, a vector drives protein expression in insect cells using baculovirus expression vectors. Baculovirus vectors available for expression of proteins in cultured insect cells (e.g., SF9 cells) include the pAc series (Smith, et al., 1983. Mol. Cell. Biol. 3: 2156-2165) and the pVL series (Lucklow and Summers, 1989. Virology 170: 31-39).

In some embodiments, a vector is capable of driving expression of one or more sequences in mammalian cells using a mammalian expression vector. Examples of mammalian expression vectors include pCDM8 (Seed, 1987. Nature 329: 840) and pMT2PC (Kaufman, et al., 1987. EMBO J. 6: 187-195). When used in mammalian cells, the expression vector's control functions are typically provided by one or more regulatory elements. For example, commonly used promoters are derived from polyoma, adenovirus 2, cytomegalovirus, simian virus 40, and others disclosed herein and known in the art. For other suitable expression systems for both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells see, e.g., Chapters 16 and 17 of Sambrook, et al., MOLECULAR CLONING: A LABORATORY MANUAL. 2nd ed., Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y., 1989.

In some embodiments, the recombinant mammalian expression vector is capable of directing expression of the nucleic acid preferentially in a particular cell type (e.g., tissue-specific regulatory elements are used to express the nucleic acid). Tissue-specific regulatory elements are known in the art. Non-limiting examples of suitable tissue-specific promoters include the albumin promoter (liver-specific; Pinkert, et al., 1987. Genes Dev. 1: 268-277), lymphoid-specific promoters (Calame and Eaton, 1988. Adv. Immunol. 43: 235-275), in particular promoters of T cell receptors (Winoto and Baltimore, 1989. EMBO J. 8: 729-733) and immunoglobulins (Baneiji, et al., 1983. Cell 33: 729-740; Queen and Baltimore, 1983. Cell 33: 741-748), neuron-specific promoters (e.g., the neurofilament promoter; Byrne and Ruddle, 1989. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 86: 5473-5477), pancreas-specific promoters (Edlund, et al., 1985. Science 230: 912-916), and mammary gland-specific promoters (e.g., milk whey promoter; U.S. Pat. No. 4,873,316 and European Application Publication No. 264,166). Developmentally-regulated promoters are also encompassed, e.g., the murine hox promoters (Kessel and Gruss, 1990. Science 249: 374-379) and the α-fetoprotein promoter (Campes and Tilghman, 1989. Genes Dev. 3: 537-546). With regards to these prokaryotic and eukaryotic vectors, mention is made of U.S. Pat. No. 6,750,059, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. Other embodiments of the invention may relate to the use of viral vectors, with regards to which mention is made of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/092,085, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. Tissue-specific regulatory elements are known in the art and in this regard, mention is made of U.S. Pat. No. 7,776,321, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. In some embodiments, a regulatory element is operably linked to one or more elements of a CRISPR system so as to drive expression of the one or more elements of the CRISPR system. In general, CRISPRs (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats), also known as SPIDRs (SPacer Interspersed Direct Repeats), constitute a family of DNA loci that are usually specific to a particular bacterial species. The CRISPR locus comprises a distinct class of interspersed short sequence repeats (SSRs) that were recognized in E. coli (Ishino et al., J. Bacteriol., 169:5429-5433 [1987]; and Nakata et al., J. Bacteriol., 171:3553-3556 [1989]), and associated genes. Similar interspersed SSRs have been identified in Haloferax mediterranei, Streptococcus pyogenes, Anabaena, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (See, Groenen et al., Mol. Microbiol., 10:1057-1065 [1993]; Hoe et al., Emerg. Infect. Dis., 5:254-263 [1999]; Masepohl et al., Biochim. Biophys. Acta 1307:26-30 [1996]; and Mojica et al., Mol. Microbiol., 17:85-93 [1995]). The CRISPR loci typically differ from other SSRs by the structure of the repeats, which have been termed short regularly spaced repeats (SRSRs) (Janssen et al., OMICS J. Integ. Biol., 6:23-33 [2002]; and Mojica et al., Mol. Microbiol., 36:244-246 [2000]). In general, the repeats are short elements that occur in clusters that are regularly spaced by unique intervening sequences with a substantially constant length (Mojica et al., [2000], supra). Although the repeat sequences are highly conserved between strains, the number of interspersed repeats and the sequences of the spacer regions typically differ from strain to strain (van Embden et al., J. Bacteriol., 182:2393-2401 [2000]). CRISPR loci have been identified in more than 40 prokaryotes (See e.g., Jansen et al., Mol. Microbiol., 43:1565-1575 [2002]; and Mojica et al., [2005]) including, but not limited to Aeropyrum, Pyrobaculum, Sulfolobus, Archaeoglobus, Halocarcula, Methanobacterium, Methanococcus, Methanosarcina, Methanopyrus, Pyrococcus, Picrophilus, Thermoplasma, Corynebacterium, Mycobacterium, Streptomyces, Aquifex, Porphyromonas, Chlorobium, Thermus, Bacillus, Listeria, Staphylococcus, Clostridium, Thermoanaerobacter, Mycoplasma, Fusobacterium, Azarcus, Chromobacterium, Neisseria, Nitrosomonas, Desulfovibrio, Geobacter, Myxococcus, Campylobacter, Wolinella, Acinetobacter, Erwinia, Escherichia, Legionella, Methylococcus, Pasteurella, Photobacterium, Salmonella, Xanthomonas, Yersinia, Treponema, and Thermotoga.

In some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme is part of a fusion protein comprising one or more heterologous protein domains (e.g. about or more than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more domains in addition to the CRISPR enzyme). A CRISPR enzyme fusion protein may comprise any additional protein sequence, and optionally a linker sequence between any two domains. Examples of protein domains that may be fused to a CRISPR enzyme include, without limitation, epitope tags, reporter gene sequences, and protein domains having one or more of the following activities: methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, RNA cleavage activity and nucleic acid binding activity. Non-limiting examples of epitope tags include histidine (His) tags, V5 tags, FLAG tags, influenza hemagglutinin (HA) tags, Myc tags, VSV-G tags, and thioredoxin (Trx) tags. Examples of reporter genes include, but are not limited to, glutathione-S-transferase (GST), horseradish peroxidase (HRP), chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) beta-galactosidase, beta-glucuronidase, luciferase, green fluorescent protein (GFP), HcRed, DsRed, cyan fluorescent protein (CFP), yellow fluorescent protein (YFP), and autofluorescent proteins including blue fluorescent protein (BFP). A CRISPR enzyme may be fused to a gene sequence encoding a protein or a fragment of a protein that bind DNA molecules or bind other cellular molecules, including but not limited to maltose binding protein (MBP), S-tag, Lex A DNA binding domain (DBD) fusions, GAL4 DNA binding domain fusions, and herpes simplex virus (HSV) BP16 protein fusions. Additional domains that may form part of a fusion protein comprising a CRISPR enzyme are in US20110059502, incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, a tagged CRISPR enzyme is used to identify the location of a target sequence.

The practice of the present invention employs, unless otherwise indicated, conventional techniques of immunology, biochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, cell biology, genomics and recombinant DNA, which are within the skill of the art. See Sambrook, Fritsch and Maniatis, MOLECULAR CLONING: A LABORATORY MANUAL, 2nd edition (1989); CURRENT PROTOCOLS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (F. M. Ausubel, et al. eds., (1987)); the series METHODS IN ENZYMOLOGY (Academic Press, Inc.): PCR 2: A PRACTICAL APPROACH (M. J. MacPherson, B. D. Hames and G. R. Taylor eds. (1995)), Harlow and Lane, eds. (1988) ANTIBODIES, A LABORATORY MANUAL, and ANIMAL CELL CULTURE (R. I. Freshney, ed. (1987)).

Models of Genetic and Epigenetic Conditions

A method of the invention may be used to create a plant, an animal or cell that may be used as a disease model. As used herein, “disease” refers to a disease, disorder, or indication in a subject. For example, a method of the invention may be used to create an animal or cell that comprises a modification in one or more nucleic acid sequences associated with a disease, or a plant, animal or cell in which the expression of one or more nucleic acid sequences associated with a disease are altered. Such a nucleic acid sequence may encode a disease associated protein sequence or may be a disease associated control sequence. Accordingly, it is understood that in embodiments of the invention, a plant, subject, patient, organism or cell can be a non-human subject, patient, organism or cell. Thus, the invention provides a plant, animal or cell, produced by the present methods, or a progeny thereof. The progeny may be a clone of the produced plant or animal, or may result from sexual reproduction by crossing with other individuals of the same species to introgress further desirable traits into their offspring. The cell may be in vivo or ex vivo in the cases of multicellular organisms, particularly animals or plants. In the instance where the cell is in cultured, a cell line may be established if appropriate culturing conditions are met and preferably if the cell is suitably adapted for this purpose (for instance a stem cell). Bacterial cell lines produced by the invention are also envisaged. Hence, cell lines are also envisaged.

In some methods, the disease model can be used to study the effects of mutations on the animal or cell and development and/or progression of the disease using measures commonly used in the study of the disease. Alternatively, such a disease model is useful for studying the effect of a pharmaceutically active compound on the disease.

In some methods, the disease model can be used to assess the efficacy of a potential gene therapy strategy. That is, a disease-associated gene or polynucleotide can be modified such that the disease development and/or progression is inhibited or reduced. In particular, the method comprises modifying a disease-associated gene or polynucleotide such that an altered protein is produced and, as a result, the animal or cell has an altered response. Accordingly, in some methods, a genetically modified animal may be compared with an animal predisposed to development of the disease such that the effect of the gene therapy event may be assessed.

In another embodiment, this invention provides a method of developing a biologically active agent that modulates a cell signaling event associated with a disease gene. The method comprises contacting a test compound with a cell comprising one or more vectors that drive expression of one or more of a CRISPR enzyme, a guide sequence linked to a tracr mate sequence, and a tracr sequence; and detecting a change in a readout that is indicative of a reduction or an augmentation of a cell signaling event associated with, e.g., a mutation in a disease gene contained in the cell.

A cell model or animal model can be constructed in combination with the method of the invention for screening a cellular function change. Such a model may be used to study the effects of a genome sequence modified by the CRISPR complex of the invention on a cellular function of interest. For example, a cellular function model may be used to study the effect of a modified genome sequence on intracellular signaling or extracellular signaling. Alternatively, a cellular function model may be used to study the effects of a modified genome sequence on sensory perception. In some such models, one or more genome sequences associated with a signaling biochemical pathway in the model are modified.

Several disease models have been specifically investigated. These include de novo autism risk genes CHD8, KATNAL2, and SCN2A; and the syndromic autism (Angelman Syndrome) gene UBE3A. These genes and resulting autism models are of course preferred, but serve to show the broad applicability of the invention across genes and corresponding models.

An altered expression of one or more genome sequences associated with a signaling biochemical pathway can be determined by assaying for a difference in the mRNA levels of the corresponding genes between the test model cell and a control cell, when they are contacted with a candidate agent. Alternatively, the differential expression of the sequences associated with a signaling biochemical pathway is determined by detecting a difference in the level of the encoded polypeptide or gene product.

To assay for an agent-induced alteration in the level of mRNA transcripts or corresponding polynucleotides, nucleic acid contained in a sample is first extracted according to standard methods in the art. For instance, mRNA can be isolated using various lytic enzymes or chemical solutions according to the procedures set forth in Sambrook et al. (1989), or extracted by nucleic-acid-binding resins following the accompanying instructions provided by the manufacturers. The mRNA contained in the extracted nucleic acid sample is then detected by amplification procedures or conventional hybridization assays (e.g. Northern blot analysis) according to methods widely known in the art or based on the methods exemplified herein.

For purpose of this invention, amplification means any method employing a primer and a polymerase capable of replicating a target sequence with reasonable fidelity. Amplification may be carried out by natural or recombinant DNA polymerases such as TaqGold™, T7 DNA polymerase, Klenow fragment of E. coli DNA polymerase, and reverse transcriptase. A preferred amplification method is PCR. In particular, the isolated RNA can be subjected to a reverse transcription assay that is coupled with a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in order to quantify the expression level of a sequence associated with a signaling biochemical pathway.

Detection of the gene expression level can be conducted in real time in an amplification assay. In one aspect, the amplified products can be directly visualized with fluorescent DNA-binding agents including but not limited to DNA intercalators and DNA groove binders. Because the amount of the intercalators incorporated into the double-stranded DNA molecules is typically proportional to the amount of the amplified DNA products, one can conveniently determine the amount of the amplified products by quantifying the fluorescence of the intercalated dye using conventional optical systems in the art. DNA-binding dye suitable for this application include SYBR green, SYBR blue, DAPI, propidium iodine, Hoeste, SYBR gold, ethidium bromide, acridines, proflavine, acridine orange, acriflavine, fluorcoumanin, ellipticine, daunomycin, chloroquine, distamycin D, chromomycin, homidium, mithramycin, ruthenium polypyridyls, anthramycin, and the like.

In another aspect, other fluorescent labels such as sequence specific probes can be employed in the amplification reaction to facilitate the detection and quantification of the amplified products. Probe-based quantitative amplification relies on the sequence-specific detection of a desired amplified product. It utilizes fluorescent, target-specific probes (e.g., TaqMan® probes) resulting in increased specificity and sensitivity. Methods for performing probe-based quantitative amplification are well established in the art and are taught in U.S. Pat. No. 5,210,015.

In yet another aspect, conventional hybridization assays using hybridization probes that share sequence homology with sequences associated with a signaling biochemical pathway can be performed. Typically, probes are allowed to form stable complexes with the sequences associated with a signaling biochemical pathway contained within the biological sample derived from the test subject in a hybridization reaction. It will be appreciated by one of skill in the art that where antisense is used as the probe nucleic acid, the target polynucleotides provided in the sample are chosen to be complementary to sequences of the antisense nucleic acids. Conversely, where the nucleotide probe is a sense nucleic acid, the target polynucleotide is selected to be complementary to sequences of the sense nucleic acid.

Hybridization can be performed under conditions of various stringency. Suitable hybridization conditions for the practice of the present invention are such that the recognition interaction between the probe and sequences associated with a signaling biochemical pathway is both sufficiently specific and sufficiently stable. Conditions that increase the stringency of a hybridization reaction are widely known and published in the art. See, for example, (Sambrook, et al., (1989); Nonradioactive In Situ Hybridization Application Manual, Boehringer Mannheim, second edition). The hybridization assay can be formed using probes immobilized on any solid support, including but are not limited to nitrocellulose, glass, silicon, and a variety of gene arrays. A preferred hybridization assay is conducted on high-density gene chips as in U.S. Pat. No. 5,445,934.

For a convenient detection of the probe-target complexes formed during the hybridization assay, the nucleotide probes are conjugated to a detectable label. Detectable labels suitable for use in the present invention include any composition detectable by photochemical, biochemical, spectroscopic, immunochemical, electrical, optical or chemical means. A wide variety of appropriate detectable labels are known in the art, which include fluorescent or chemiluminescent labels, radioactive isotope labels, enzymatic or other ligands. In preferred embodiments, one will likely desire to employ a fluorescent label or an enzyme tag, such as digoxigenin, ß-galactosidase, urease, alkaline phosphatase or peroxidase, avidin/biotin complex.

The detection methods used to detect or quantify the hybridization intensity will typically depend upon the label selected above. For example, radiolabels may be detected using photographic film or a phosphoimager. Fluorescent markers may be detected and quantified using a photodetector to detect emitted light. Enzymatic labels are typically detected by providing the enzyme with a substrate and measuring the reaction product produced by the action of the enzyme on the substrate; and finally colorimetric labels are detected by simply visualizing the colored label.

An agent-induced change in expression of sequences associated with a signaling biochemical pathway can also be determined by examining the corresponding gene products. Determining the protein level typically involves a) contacting the protein contained in a biological sample with an agent that specifically bind to a protein associated with a signaling biochemical pathway; and (b) identifying any agent:protein complex so formed. In one aspect of this embodiment, the agent that specifically binds a protein associated with a signaling biochemical pathway is an antibody, preferably a monoclonal antibody.

The reaction is performed by contacting the agent with a sample of the proteins associated with a signaling biochemical pathway derived from the test samples under conditions that will allow a complex to form between the agent and the proteins associated with a signaling biochemical pathway. The formation of the complex can be detected directly or indirectly according to standard procedures in the art. In the direct detection method, the agents are supplied with a detectable label and unreacted agents may be removed from the complex; the amount of remaining label thereby indicating the amount of complex formed. For such method, it is preferable to select labels that remain attached to the agents even during stringent washing conditions. It is preferable that the label does not interfere with the binding reaction. In the alternative, an indirect detection procedure may use an agent that contains a label introduced either chemically or enzymatically. A desirable label generally does not interfere with binding or the stability of the resulting agent:polypeptide complex. However, the label is typically designed to be accessible to an antibody for an effective binding and hence generating a detectable signal.

A wide variety of labels suitable for detecting protein levels are known in the art. Non-limiting examples include radioisotopes, enzymes, colloidal metals, fluorescent compounds, bioluminescent compounds, and chemiluminescent compounds.

The amount of agent:polypeptide complexes formed during the binding reaction can be quantified by standard quantitative assays. As illustrated above, the formation of agent:polypeptide complex can be measured directly by the amount of label remained at the site of binding. In an alternative, the protein associated with a signaling biochemical pathway is tested for its ability to compete with a labeled analog for binding sites on the specific agent. In this competitive assay, the amount of label captured is inversely proportional to the amount of protein sequences associated with a signaling biochemical pathway present in a test sample.

A number of techniques for protein analysis based on the general principles outlined above are available in the art. They include but are not limited to radioimmunoassays, ELISA (enzyme linked immunoradiometric assays), “sandwich” immunoassays, immunoradiometric assays, in situ immunoassays (using e.g., colloidal gold, enzyme or radioisotope labels), western blot analysis, immunoprecipitation assays, immunofluorescent assays, and SDS-PAGE.

Antibodies that specifically recognize or bind to proteins associated with a signaling biochemical pathway are preferable for conducting the aforementioned protein analyses. Where desired, antibodies that recognize a specific type of post-translational modifications (e.g., signaling biochemical pathway inducible modifications) can be used. Post-translational modifications include but are not limited to glycosylation, lipidation, acetylation, and phosphorylation. These antibodies may be purchased from commercial vendors. For example, anti-phosphotyrosine antibodies that specifically recognize tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins are available from a number of vendors including Invitrogen and Perkin Elmer. Anti-phosphotyrosine antibodies are particularly useful in detecting proteins that are differentially phosphorylated on their tyrosine residues in response to an ER stress. Such proteins include but are not limited to eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 alpha (eIF-2a). Alternatively, these antibodies can be generated using conventional polyclonal or monoclonal antibody technologies by immunizing a host animal or an antibody-producing cell with a target protein that exhibits the desired post-translational modification.

In practicing the subject method, it may be desirable to discern the expression pattern of an protein associated with a signaling biochemical pathway in different bodily tissue, in different cell types, and/or in different subcellular structures. These studies can be performed with the use of tissue-specific, cell-specific or subcellular structure specific antibodies capable of binding to protein markers that are preferentially expressed in certain tissues, cell types, or subcellular structures.

An altered expression of a gene associated with a signaling biochemical pathway can also be determined by examining a change in activity of the gene product relative to a control cell. The assay for an agent-induced change in the activity of a protein associated with a signaling biochemical pathway will dependent on the biological activity and/or the signal transduction pathway that is under investigation. For example, where the protein is a kinase, a change in its ability to phosphorylate the downstream substrate(s) can be determined by a variety of assays known in the art. Representative assays include but are not limited to immunoblotting and immunoprecipitation with antibodies such as anti-phosphotyrosine antibodies that recognize phosphorylated proteins. In addition, kinase activity can be detected by high throughput chemiluminescent assays such as AlphaScreen™ (available from Perkin Elmer) and eTag™ assay (Chan-Hui, et al. (2003) Clinical Immunology 111: 162-174).

Where the protein associated with a signaling biochemical pathway is part of a signaling cascade leading to a fluctuation of intracellular pH condition, pH sensitive molecules such as fluorescent pH dyes can be used as the reporter molecules. In another example where the protein associated with a signaling biochemical pathway is an ion channel, fluctuations in membrane potential and/or intracellular ion concentration can be monitored. A number of commercial kits and high-throughput devices are particularly suited for a rapid and robust screening for modulators of ion channels. Representative instruments include FLIPR™ (Molecular Devices, Inc.) and VIPR (Aurora Biosciences). These instruments are capable of detecting reactions in over 1000 sample wells of a microplate simultaneously, and providing real-time measurement and functional data within a second or even a minisecond.

In practicing any of the methods disclosed herein, a suitable vector can be introduced to a cell or an embryo via one or more methods known in the art, including without limitation, microinjection, electroporation, sonoporation, biolistics, calcium phosphate-mediated transfection, cationic transfection, liposome transfection, dendrimer transfection, heat shock transfection, nucleofection transfection, magnetofection, lipofection, impalefection, optical transfection, proprietary agent-enhanced uptake of nucleic acids, and delivery via liposomes, immunoliposomes, virosomes, or artificial virions. In some methods, the vector is introduced into an embryo by microinjection. The vector or vectors may be microinjected into the nucleus or the cytoplasm of the embryo. In some methods, the vector or vectors may be introduced into a cell by nucleofection.

Target Locus, Target Polynucleotide; PAM Sequence

The target polynucleotide of a CRISPR complex can be any polynucleotide endogenous or exogenous to the eukaryotic cell. For example, the target polynucleotide can be a polynucleotide residing in the nucleus of the eukaryotic cell. The target polynucleotide can be a sequence coding a gene product (e.g., a protein) or a non-coding sequence (e.g., a regulatory polynucleotide or a junk DNA). The target can be a control element or a regulatory element or a promoter or an enhancer or a silencer. The promoter may, in some embodiments, be in the region of +200 bp or even +1000 bp from the TTS. In some embodiments, the regulatory region may be an enhancer. The enhancer is typically more than +1000 bp from the TTS. More in particular, expression of eukaryotic protein-coding genes generally is regulated through multiple cis-acting transcription-control regions. Some control elements are located close to the start site (promoter-proximal elements), whereas others lie more distant (enhancers and silencers) Promoters determine the site of transcription initiation and direct binding of RNA polymerase II. Three types of promoter sequences have been identified in eukaryotic DNA. The TATA box, the most common, is prevalent in rapidly transcribed genes. Initiator promoters infrequently are found in some genes, and CpG islands are characteristic of transcribed genes. Promoter-proximal elements occur within ≈200 base pairs of the start site. Several such elements, containing up to ≈20 base pairs, may help regulate a particular gene. Enhancers, which are usually ≈100-200 base pairs in length, contain multiple 8- to 20-bp control elements. They may be located from 200 base pairs to tens of kilobases upstream or downstream from a promoter, within an intron, or downstream from the final exon of a gene. Promoter-proximal elements and enhancers may be cell-type specific, functioning only in specific differentiated cell types. However, any of these regions can be the target sequence and are encompassed by the concept that the target can be a control element or a regulatory element or a promoter or an enhancer or a silencer.

Typically, in the context of an endogenous nucleic acid-targeting system, formation of a nucleic acid-targeting complex (comprising a guide RNA hybridized to a target sequence and complexed with one or more nucleic acid-targeting effector proteins) results in cleavage of one or both DNA or RNA strands in or near (e.g., within 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 50, or more base pairs from) the target sequence. As used herein the term “sequence(s) associated with a target locus of interest” refers to sequences near the vicinity of the target sequence (e.g. within 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 50, or more base pairs from the target sequence, wherein the target sequence is comprised within a target locus of interest).

Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the target sequence should be associated with a PAM (protospacer adjacent motif); that is, a short sequence recognized by the CRISPR complex. The precise sequence and length requirements for the PAM differ depending on the CRISPR enzyme used, but PAMs are typically 2-5 base pair sequences adjacent the protospacer (that is, the target sequence). Examples of PAM sequences are given in the examples section below, and the skilled person will be able to identify further PAM sequences for use with a given CRISPR enzyme. Further, engineering of the PAM Interacting (PI) domain may allow programing of PAM specificity, improve target site recognition fidelity, and increase the versatility of the Cas, e.g. Cas9, genome engineering platform. Cas proteins, such as Cas9 proteins may be engineered to alter their PAM specificity, for example as described in Kleinstiver B P et al. Engineered CRISPR-Cas9 nucleases with altered PAM specificities. Nature. 2015 Jul. 23; 523(7561):481-5. doi: 10.1038/nature14592. In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a CRISPR complex to bind to the target polynucleotide to effect cleavage of said target polynucleotide thereby modifying the target polynucleotide, wherein the CRISPR complex comprises a CRISPR enzyme complexed with a guide sequence hybridized to a target sequence within said target polynucleotide, wherein said guide sequence is linked to a tracr mate sequence which in turn hybridizes to a tracr sequence. In one aspect, the invention provides a method of modifying expression of a polynucleotide in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a CRISPR complex to bind to the polynucleotide such that said binding results in increased or decreased expression of said polynucleotide; wherein the CRISPR complex comprises a CRISPR enzyme complexed with a guide sequence hybridized to a target sequence within said polynucleotide, wherein said guide sequence is linked to a tracr mate sequence which in turn hybridizes to a tracr sequence. Similar considerations and conditions apply as above for methods of modifying a target polynucleotide. In fact, these sampling, culturing and re-introduction options apply across the aspects of the present invention. In one aspect, the invention provides for methods of modifying a target polynucleotide in a eukaryotic cell, which may be in vivo, ex vivo or in vitro. In some embodiments, the method comprises sampling a cell or population of cells from a human or non-human animal, and modifying the cell or cells. Culturing may occur at any stage ex vivo. The cell or cells may even be re-introduced into the non-human animal or plant. For re-introduced cells it is particularly preferred that the cells are stem cells.

Indeed, in any aspect of the invention, the CRISPR complex may comprise a CRISPR enzyme complexed with a guide sequence hybridized to a target sequence, wherein said guide sequence may be linked to a tracr mate sequence which in turn may hybridize to a tracr sequence.

The invention relates to the engineering and optimization of systems, methods and compositions used for the control of gene expression involving sequence targeting, such as genome perturbation or gene-editing, that relate to the CRISPR-Cas system and components thereof. The Cas enzyme is Cas9. An advantage of the present methods is that the CRISPR system minimizes or avoids off-target binding and its resulting side effects. This is achieved using systems arranged to have a high degree of sequence specificity for the target DNA.

In relation to a CRISPR-Cas complex or system preferably, the tracr sequence has one or more hairpins and is 30 or more nucleotides in length, 40 or more nucleotides in length, or 50 or more nucleotides in length; the guide sequence is between 10 to 30 nucleotides in length, the CRISPR/Cas enzyme is a Type II Cas9 enzyme.

The target polynucleotide of a CRISPR complex may include a number of disease-associated genes and polynucleotides as well as signaling biochemical pathway-associated genes and polynucleotides as listed in U.S. provisional patent applications 61/736,527 and 61/748,427 having Broad reference BI-2011/008/WSGR Docket No. 44063-701.101 and BI-2011/008/WSGR Docket No. 44063-701.102 respectively, both entitled SYSTEMS METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR SEQUENCE MANIPULATION filed on Dec. 12, 2012 and Jan. 2, 2013, respectively, the contents of all of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Examples of target polynucleotides include a sequence associated with a signaling biochemical pathway, e.g., a signaling biochemical pathway-associated gene or polynucleotide. Examples of target polynucleotides include a disease associated gene or polynucleotide. A “disease-associated” gene or polynucleotide refers to any gene or polynucleotide which is yielding transcription or translation products at an abnormal level or in an abnormal form in cells derived from a disease-affected tissues compared with tissues or cells of a non disease control. It may be a gene that becomes expressed at an abnormally high level; it may be a gene that becomes expressed at an abnormally low level, where the altered expression correlates with the occurrence and/or progression of the disease. A disease-associated gene also refers to a gene possessing mutation(s) or genetic variation that is directly responsible or is in linkage disequilibrium with a gene(s) that is responsible for the etiology of a disease. The transcribed or translated products may be known or unknown, and may be at a normal or abnormal level.

Genome-Wide Knock-Out Screening

The CRISPR-Cas proteins and systems described herein can be used to perform efficient and cost effective functional genomic screens. Such screens can utilize CRISPR-Cas genome wide libraries. Such screens and libraries can provide for determining the function of genes, cellular pathways genes are involved in, and how any alteration in gene expression can result in a particular biological process. An advantage of the present invention is that the CRISPR system avoids off-target binding and its resulting side effects. This is achieved using systems arranged to have a high degree of sequence specificity for the target DNA.

A genome wide library may comprise a plurality of CRISPR-Cas system guide RNAs, as described herein, comprising guide sequences that are capable of targeting a plurality of target sequences in a plurality of genomic loci in a population of eukaryotic cells. The population of cells may be a population of embryonic stem (ES) cells. The target sequence in the genomic locus may be a non-coding sequence. The non-coding sequence may be an intron, regulatory sequence, splice site, 3′ UTR, 5′ UTR, or polyadenylation signal. Gene function of one or more gene products may be altered by said targeting. The targeting may result in a knockout of gene function. The targeting of a gene product may comprise more than one guide RNA. A gene product may be targeted by 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 guide RNAs, preferably 3 to 4 per gene. Off-target modifications may be minimized (See, e.g., DNA targeting specificity of RNA-guided Cas9 nucleases. Hsu, P., Scott, D., Weinstein, J., Ran, F A., Konermann, S., Agarwala, V., Li, Y., Fine, E., Wu, X., Shalem, O., Cradick, T J., Marraffini, L A., Bao, G., & Zhang, F. Nat Biotechnol doi:10.1038/nbt.2647 (2013)), incorporated herein by reference. The targeting may be of about 100 or more sequences. The targeting may be of about 1000 or more sequences. The targeting may be of about 20,000 or more sequences. The targeting may be of the entire genome. The targeting may be of a panel of target sequences focused on a relevant or desirable pathway. The pathway may be an immune pathway. The pathway may be a cell division pathway.

One aspect of the invention comprehends a genome wide library that may comprise a plurality of CRISPR-Cas system guide RNAs that may comprise guide sequences that are capable of targeting a plurality of target sequences in a plurality of genomic loci, wherein said targeting results in a knockout of gene function. This library may potentially comprise guide RNAs that target each and every gene in the genome of an organism.

In some embodiments of the invention the organism or subject is a eukaryote (including mammal including human) or a non-human eukaryote or a non-human animal or a non-human mammal. In some embodiments, the organism or subject is a non-human animal, and may be an arthropod, for example, an insect, or may be a nematode. In some methods of the invention the organism or subject is a plant. In some methods of the invention the organism or subject is a mammal or a non-human mammal. A non-human mammal may be for example a rodent (preferably a mouse or a rat), an ungulate, or a primate. In some methods of the invention the organism or subject is algae, including microalgae, or is a fungus.

The knockout of gene function may comprise: introducing into each cell in the population of cells a vector system of one or more vectors comprising an engineered, non-naturally occurring CRISPR-Cas system comprising I. a Cas protein, and II. one or more guide RNAs, wherein components I and II may be same or on different vectors of the system, integrating components I and II into each cell, wherein the guide sequence targets a unique gene in each cell, wherein the Cas protein is operably linked to a regulatory element, wherein when transcribed, the guide RNA comprising the guide sequence directs sequence-specific binding of a CRISPR-Cas system to a target sequence in the genomic loci of the unique gene, inducing cleavage of the genomic loci by the Cas protein, and confirming different knockout mutations in a plurality of unique genes in each cell of the population of cells thereby generating a gene knockout cell library. The invention comprehends that the population of cells is a population of eukaryotic cells, and in a preferred embodiment, the population of cells is a population of embryonic stem (ES) cells.

The one or more vectors may be plasmid vectors. The vector may be a single vector comprising Cas9, a sgRNA, and optionally, a selection marker into target cells. Not being bound by a theory, the ability to simultaneously deliver Cas9 and sgRNA through a single vector enables application to any cell type of interest, without the need to first generate cell lines that express Cas9. The regulatory element may be an inducible promoter. The inducible promoter may be a doxycycline inducible promoter. In some methods of the invention the expression of the guide sequence is under the control of the T7 promoter and is driven by the expression of T7 polymerase. The confirming of different knockout mutations may be by whole exome sequencing. The knockout mutation may be achieved in 100 or more unique genes. The knockout mutation may be achieved in 1000 or more unique genes. The knockout mutation may be achieved in 20,000 or more unique genes. The knockout mutation may be achieved in the entire genome. The knockout of gene function may be achieved in a plurality of unique genes which function in a particular physiological pathway or condition. The pathway or condition may be an immune pathway or condition. The pathway or condition may be a cell division pathway or condition.

The invention also provides kits that comprise the genome wide libraries mentioned herein. The kit may comprise a single container comprising vectors or plasmids comprising the library of the invention. The kit may also comprise a panel comprising a selection of unique CRISPR-Cas system guide RNAs comprising guide sequences from the library of the invention, wherein the selection is indicative of a particular physiological condition. The invention comprehends that the targeting is of about 100 or more sequences, about 1000 or more sequences or about 20,000 or more sequences or the entire genome. Furthermore, a panel of target sequences may be focused on a relevant or desirable pathway, such as an immune pathway or cell division.

In an additional aspect of the invention, a Cas9 enzyme may comprise one or more mutations and may be used as a generic DNA binding protein with or without fusion to a functional domain. The mutations may be artificially introduced mutations or gain- or loss-of-function mutations. The mutations may include but are not limited to mutations in one of the catalytic domains (D10 and H840) in the RuvC and HNH catalytic domains, respectively. Further mutations have been characterized. In one aspect of the invention, the functional domain may be a transcriptional activation domain, which may be VP64. In other aspects of the invention, the functional domain may be a transcriptional repressor domain, which may be KRAB or SID4×. Other aspects of the invention relate to the mutated Cas 9 enzyme being fused to domains which include but are not limited to a transcriptional activator, repressor, a recombinase, a transposase, a histone remodeler, a demethylase, a DNA methyltransferase, a cryptochrome, a light inducible/controllable domain or a chemically inducible/controllable domain. Some methods of the invention can include inducing expression of targeted genes. In one embodiment, inducing expression by targeting a plurality of target sequences in a plurality of genomic loci in a population of eukaryotic cells is by use of a functional domain.

Useful in the practice of the instant invention, reference is made to:

-   -   Genome-Scale CRISPR-Cas9 Knockout Screening in Human Cells.         Shalem, O., Sanjana, N E., Hartenian, E., Shi, X., Scott, D A.,         Mikkelson, T., Heckl, D., Ebert, B L., Root, D E., Doench, J G.,         Zhang, F. Science December 12. (2013). [Epub ahead of print];         Published in final edited form as: Science. 2014 Jan. 3;         343(6166): 84-87.     -   Shalem et al. involves a new way to interrogate gene function on         a genome-wide scale. Their studies showed that delivery of a         genome-scale CRISPR-Cas9 knockout (GeCKO) library targeted         18,080 genes with 64,751 unique guide sequences enabled both         negative and positive selection screening in human cells. First,         the authors showed use of the GeCKO library to identify genes         essential for cell viability in cancer and pluripotent stem         cells. Next, in a melanoma model, the authors screened for genes         whose loss is involved in resistance to vemurafenib, a         therapeutic that inhibits mutant protein kinase BRAF. Their         studies showed that the highest-ranking candidates included         previously validated genes NF1 and MED12 as well as novel hits         NF2, CUL3, TADA2B, and TADA1. The authors observed a high level         of consistency between independent guide RNAs targeting the same         gene and a high rate of hit confirmation, and thus demonstrated         the promise of genome-scale screening with Cas9.

Reference is also made to US patent publication number US20140357530; and PCT Patent Publication WO2014093701, hereby incorporated herein by reference.

Functional Alteration and Screening

In some embodiments, one or more functional domains are associated with the CRISPR enzyme, for example a Type II Cas9 enzyme.

In some embodiments, one or more functional domains are associated with an adaptor protein, for example as used with the modified guides of Konnerman et al. (Nature 517, 583-588, 29 Jan. 2015).

In some embodiments, one or more functional domains are associated with an dead sgRNA (dRNA). In some embodiments, a dRNA complex with active cas9 directs gene regulation by a functional domain at on gene locus while an sgRNA directs DNA cleavage by the active cas9 at another locus, for example as in Dahlman et al., ‘Orthogonal gene control with a catalytically active Cas9 nuclease’ (in press). In some embodiments, dRNAs are selected to maximize selectivity of regulation for a gene locus of interest compared to off-target regulation. In some embodiments, dRNAs are selected to maximize target gene regulation and minimize target cleavage

For the purposes of the following discussion, reference to a functional domain could be a functional domain associated with the CRISPR enzyme or a functional domain associated with the adaptor protein.

In the practice of the invention, loops of the sgRNA may be extended, without colliding with the Cas9 protein by the insertion of distinct RNA loop(s) or distinct sequence(s) that may recruit adaptor proteins that can bind to the distinct RNA loop(s) or distinct sequence(s). The adaptor proteins may include but are not limited to orthogonal RNA-binding protein/aptamer combinations that exist within the diversity of bacteriophage coat proteins. A list of such coat proteins includes, but is not limited to: Qβ, F2, GA, fr, JP501, M12, R17, BZ13, JP34, JP500, KU1, M11, MX1, TW18, VK, SP, FI, ID2, NL95, TW19, AP205, ϕCb5, ϕCb8r, ϕCb12r, ϕCb23r. 7s and PRR1. These adaptor proteins or orthogonal RNA binding proteins can further recruit effector proteins or fusions which comprise one or more functional domains. In some embodiments, the functional domain may be selected from the group consisting of: transposase domain, integrase domain, recombinase domain, resolvase domain, invertase domain, protease domain, DNA methyltransferase domain, DNA hydroxylmethylase domain, DNA demethylase domain, histone acetylase domain, histone deacetylases domain, nuclease domain, repressor domain, activator domain, nuclear-localization signal domains, transcription-regulatory protein (or transcription complex recruiting) domain, cellular uptake activity associated domain, nucleic acid binding domain, antibody presentation domain, histone modifying enzymes, recruiter of histone modifying enzymes; inhibitor of histone modifying enzymes, histone methyltransferase, histone demethylase, histone kinase, histone phosphatase, histone ribosylase, histone deribosylase, histone ubiquitinase, histone deubiquitinase, histone biotinase and histone tail protease. In some preferred embodiments, the functional domain is a transcriptional activation domain, such as, without limitation, VP64, p65, MyoD1, HSF1, RTA, SET7/9 or a histone acetyltransferase. In some embodiments, the functional domain is a transcription repression domain, preferably KRAB. In some embodiments, the transcription repression domain is SID, or concatemers of SID (eg SID4×). In some embodiments, the functional domain is an epigenetic modifying domain, such that an epigenetic modifying enzyme is provided. In some embodiments, the functional domain is an activation domain, which may be the P65 activation domain.

In some embodiments, the one or more functional domains is an NLS (Nuclear Localization Sequence) or an NES (Nuclear Export Signal). In some embodiments, the one or more functional domains is a transcriptional activation domain comprises VP64, p65, MyoD1, HSF1, RTA, SET7/9 and a histone acetyltransferase. Other references herein to activation (or activator) domains in respect of those associated with the CRISPR enzyme include any known transcriptional activation domain and specifically VP64, p65, MyoD1, HSF1, RTA, SET7/9 or a histone acetyltransferase.

In some embodiments, the one or more functional domains is a transcriptional repressor domain. In some embodiments, the transcriptional repressor domain is a KRAB domain. In some embodiments, the transcriptional repressor domain is a NuE domain, NcoR domain, SID domain or a SID4× domain.

In some embodiments, the one or more functional domains have one or more activities comprising methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, RNA cleavage activity, DNA cleavage activity, DNA integration activity or nucleic acid binding activity.

Histone modifying domains are also preferred in some embodiments. Exemplary histone modifying domains are discussed below. Transposase domains, HR (Homologous Recombination) machinery domains, recombinase domains, and/or integrase domains are also preferred as the present functional domains. In some embodiments, DNA integration activity includes HR machinery domains, integrase domains, recombinase domains and/or transposase domains. Histone acetyltransferases are preferred in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, the DNA cleavage activity is due to a nuclease. In some embodiments, the nuclease comprises a Fok1 nuclease. See, “Dimeric CRISPR RNA-guided Fok1 nucleases for highly specific genome editing”, Shengdar Q. Tsai, Nicolas Wyvekens, Cyd Khayter, Jennifer A. Foden, Vishal Thapar, Deepak Reyon, Mathew J. Goodwin, Martin J. Aryee, J. Keith Joung Nature Biotechnology 32(6): 569-77 (2014), relates to dimeric RNA-guided FokI Nucleases that recognize extended sequences and can edit endogenous genes with high efficiencies in human cells.

In some embodiments, the one or more functional domains is attached to the CRISPR enzyme so that upon binding to the sgRNA and target the functional domain is in a spatial orientation allowing for the functional domain to function in its attributed function.

In some embodiments, the one or more functional domains is attached to the adaptor protein so that upon binding of the CRISPR enzyme to the sgRNA and target, the functional domain is in a spatial orientation allowing for the functional domain to function in its attributed function.

In an aspect the invention provides a composition as herein discussed wherein the one or more functional domains is attached to the CRISPR enzyme or adaptor protein via a linker, optionally a GlySer linker, as discussed herein.

Endogenous transcriptional repression is often mediated by chromatin modifying enzymes such as histone methyltransferases (HMTs) and deacetylases (HDACs). Repressive histone effector domains are known and an exemplary list is provided below. In the exemplary table, preference was given to proteins and functional truncations of small size to facilitate efficient viral packaging (for instance via AAV). In general, however, the domains may include HDACs, histone methyltransferases (HMTs), and histone acetyltransferase (HAT) inhibitors, as well as HDAC and HMT recruiting proteins. The functional domain may be or include, in some embodiments, HDAC Effector Domains, HDAC Recruiter Effector Domains, Histone Methyltransferase (HMT) Effector Domains, Histone Methyltransferase (HMT) Recruiter Effector Domains, or Histone Acetyltransferase Inhibitor Effector Domains.

HDAC Effector Domains Full Selected Subtype/ Substrate Modification size truncation Final size Catalytic Complex Name (if known) (if known) Organism (aa) (aa) (aa) domain HDAC I HDAC8 — — X. laevis 325 1-325 325 1-272: HDAC HDAC I RPD3 — — S. cerevisiae 433 19-340 322 19-331: (Vannier) HDAC HDAC MesoLo4 — — M. loti 300 1-300 300 — IV (Gregoretti) HDAC HDAC11 — — H. sapiens 347 1-347 (Gao) 347 14-326: IV HDAC HD2 HDT1 — — A. thaliana 245 1-211 (Wu) 211 — SIRT I SIRT3 H3K9Ac — H. sapiens 399 143-399 257 126-382: H4K16Ac (Scher) SIRT H3K56Ac SIRT I HST2 — — C. albicans 331 1-331 331 — (Hnisz) SIRT I CobB — — E. coli 242 1-242 242 — (K12) (Landry) SIRT I HST2 — — S. cerevisiae 357 8-298 291 — (Wilson) SIRT III SIRT5 H4K8Ac — H. sapiens 310 37-310 274 41-309: H4K16Ac (Gertz) SIRT SIRT III Sir2A — — P. falciparum 273 1-273 (Zhu) 273 19-273: SIRT SIRT IV SIRT6 H3K9Ac — H. sapiens 355 1-289 289 35-274: H3K56Ac (Tennen) SIRT

Accordingly, the repressor domains of the present invention may be selected from histone methyltransferases (HMTs), histone deacetylases (HDACs), histone acetyltransferase (HAT) inhibitors, as well as HDAC and HMT recruiting proteins.

The HDAC domain may be any of those in the table above, namely: HDAC8, RPD3, MesoLo4, HDAC11, HDT1, SIRT3, HST2, CobB, HST2, SIRT5, Sir2A, or SIRT6.

In some embodiment, the functional domain may be a HDAC Recruiter Effector Domain. Preferred examples include those in the Table below, namely MeCP2, MBD2b, Sin3a, NcoR, SALL1, RCOR1. NcoR is exemplified in the present Examples and, although preferred, it is envisaged that others in the class will also be useful.

Table of HDAC Recruiter Effector Domains Substrate Full Selected Final Subtype/ (if Modification size truncation size Catalytic Complex Name known) (if known) Organism (aa) (aa) (aa) domain Sin3a MeCP2 — — R. norvegicus 492 207-492 286 — (Nan) Sin3a MBD2b — — H. sapiens 262 45-262 218 — (Boeke) Sin3a Sin3a — — H. sapiens 1273 524-851 328 627-829: (Laherty) HDAC1 interaction NcoR NcoR — — H. sapiens 2440 420-488 69 — (Zhang) NuRD SALL1 — — M. musculus 1322 1-93 93 — (Lauberth) CoREST RCOR1 — — H. sapiens 482 81-300 (Gu, 220 — Ouyang)

In some embodiment, the functional domain may be a Methyltransferase (HMT) Effector Domain. Preferred examples include those in the Table below, namely NUE, vSET, EHMT2/G9A, SUV39H1, dim-5, KYP, SUVR4, SET4, SET1, SETD8, and TgSET8. NUE is exemplified in the present Examples and, although preferred, it is envisaged that others in the class will also be useful.

Table of Histone Methyltransferase (HMT) Effector Domains Substrate Full Selected Subtype/ (if Modification size truncation Final size Catalytic Complex Name known) (if known) Organism (aa) (aa) (aa) domain SET NUE H2B, — C. trachomatis 219 1-219 219 — H3, H4 (Pennini) SET vSET — H3K27me3 P. bursaria 119 1-119 119 4-112: chlorella (Mujtaba) SET2 virus SUV39 EHMT2/G9A H1.4K2, H3K9me1/2, M. musculus 1263 969-1263 295 1025-1233: family H3K9, H1K25me1 (Tachibana) preSET, H3K27 SET, postSET SUV39 SUV39H1 — H3K9me2/3 H. sapiens 412 79-412 334 172-412: (Snowden) preSET, SET, postSET Suvar3-9 dim-5 — H3K9me3 N. crassa 331 1-331 331 77-331: (Rathert) preSET, SET, postSET Suvar3-9 KYP — H3K9me1/2 A. thaliana 624 335-601 267 — (SUVH (Jackson) subfamily) Suvar3-9 SUVR4 H3K9me1 H3K9me2/3 A. thaliana 492 180-492 313 192-462: (SUVR (Thorstensen) preSET, subfamily) SET, postSET Suvar4- SET4 — H4K20me3 C. elegans 288 1-288 288 — 20 (Vielle) SET8 SET1 — H4K20me1 C. elegans 242 1-242 242 — (Vielle) SET8 SETD8 — H4K20me1 H. sapiens 393 185-393 209 256-382: (Couture) SET SET8 TgSET8 — H4K20me1/2/3 T. gondii 1893 1590-1893 304 1749-1884: (Sautel) SET

In some embodiment, the functional domain may be a Histone Methyltransferase (HMT) Recruiter Effector Domain. Preferred examples include those in the Table below, namely Hp1a, PHF19, and NIPP1.

Table of Histone Methyltransferase (HMT) Recruiter Effector Domains Substrate Full Selected Subtype/ (if Modification size truncation Final size Catalytic Complex Name known) (if known) Organism (aa) (aa) (aa) domain — Hp1a — H3K9me3 M. musculus 191 73-191 119 121-179: (Hathaway) chromoshadow — PHF19 — H3K27me3 H. sapiens 580 (1-250) + 335 163-250: GGSG (Ballare) PHD2 linker + (500-580) — NIPP1 — H3K27me3 H. sapiens 351 1-329 (Jin) 329 310-329: EED

In some embodiment, the functional domain may be Histone Acetyltransferase Inhibitor Effector Domain. Preferred examples include SET/TAF-10 listed in the Table below.

Table of Histone Acetyltransferase Inhibitor Effector Domains Substrate Full Selected Final Subtype/ (if Modification size truncation size Catalytic Complex Name known) (if known) Organism (aa) (aa) (aa) domain — SET/TAF- — — M. musculus 289 1-289 289 — 1β (Cervoni)

It is also preferred to target endogenous (regulatory) control elements (such as enhancers and silencers) in addition to a promoter or promoter-proximal elements. Thus, the invention can also be used to target endogenous control elements (including enhancers and silencers) in addition to targeting of the promoter. These control elements can be located upstream and downstream of the transcriptional start site (TSS), starting from 200 bp from the TSS to 100 kb away. Targeting of known control elements can be used to activate or repress the gene of interest. In some cases, a single control element can influence the transcription of multiple target genes. Targeting of a single control element could therefore be used to control the transcription of multiple genes simultaneously.

Targeting of putative control elements on the other hand (e.g. by tiling the region of the putative control element as well as 200 bp up to 100 kB around the element) can be used as a means to verify such elements (by measuring the transcription of the gene of interest) or to detect novel control elements (e.g. by tiling 100 kb upstream and downstream of the TSS of the gene of interest). In addition, targeting of putative control elements can be useful in the context of understanding genetic causes of disease. Many mutations and common SNP variants associated with disease phenotypes are located outside coding regions. Targeting of such regions with either the activation or repression systems described herein can be followed by readout of transcription of either a) a set of putative targets (e.g. a set of genes located in closest proximity to the control element) or b) whole-transcriptome readout by e.g. RNAseq or microarray. This would allow for the identification of likely candidate genes involved in the disease phenotype. Such candidate genes could be useful as novel drug targets.

Histone acetyltransferase (HAT) inhibitors are mentioned herein. However, an alternative in some embodiments is for the one or more functional domains to comprise an acetyltransferase, preferably a histone acetyltransferase. These are useful in the field of epigenomics, for example in methods of interrogating the epigenome. Methods of interrogating the epigenome may include, for example, targeting epigenomic sequences. Targeting epigenomic sequences may include the guide being directed to an epigenomic target sequence. Epigenomic target sequence may include, in some embodiments, include a promoter, silencer or an enhancer sequence.

Use of a functional domain linked to a CRISPR-Cas enzyme as described herein, preferably a dead-Cas, more preferably a dead-Cas9, to target epigenomic sequences can be used to activate or repress promoters, silencer or enhancers.

Examples of acetyltransferases are known but may include, in some embodiments, histone acetyltransferases. In some embodiments, the histone acetyltransferase may comprise the catalytic core of the human acetyltransferase p300 (Gerbasch & Reddy, Nature Biotech 6th April 2015).

In some preferred embodiments, the functional domain is linked to a dead-Cas9 enzyme to target and activate epigenomic sequences such as promoters or enhancers. One or more guides directed to such promoters or enhancers may also be provided to direct the binding of the CRISPR enzyme to such promoters or enhancers.

The term “associated with” is used here in relation to the association of the functional domain to the CRISPR enzyme or the adaptor protein. It is used in respect of how one molecule ‘associates’ with respect to another, for example between an adaptor protein and a functional domain, or between the CRISPR enzyme and a functional domain. In the case of such protein-protein interactions, this association may be viewed in terms of recognition in the way an antibody recognizes an epitope. Alternatively, one protein may be associated with another protein via a fusion of the two, for instance one subunit being fused to another subunit. Fusion typically occurs by addition of the amino acid sequence of one to that of the other, for instance via splicing together of the nucleotide sequences that encode each protein or subunit. Alternatively, this may essentially be viewed as binding between two molecules or direct linkage, such as a fusion protein. In any event, the fusion protein may include a linker between the two subunits of interest (i.e. between the enzyme and the functional domain or between the adaptor protein and the functional domain). Thus, in some embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme or adaptor protein is associated with a functional domain by binding thereto. In other embodiments, the CRISPR enzyme or adaptor protein is associated with a functional domain because the two are fused together, optionally via an intermediate linker.

Attachment of a functional domain or fusion protein can be via a linker, e.g., a flexible glycine-serine (GlyGlyGlySer) (SEQ ID NO: 1) or (GGGS)₃ (SEQ ID NO: 40) or a rigid alpha-helical linker such as (Ala(GluAlaAlaAlaLys)Ala) (SEQ ID NO: 41). Linkers such as (GGGGS)₃ (SEQ ID NO: 2) are preferably used herein to separate protein or peptide domains. (GGGGS)₃ (SEQ ID NO: 2) is preferable because it is a relatively long linker (15 amino acids). The glycine residues are the most flexible and the serine residues enhance the chance that the linker is on the outside of the protein. (GGGGS)₆ (SEQ ID NO: 3) (GGGGS)₉ (SEQ ID NO: 4) or (GGGGS)₁₂ (SEQ ID NO: 5) may preferably be used as alternatives. Other preferred alternatives are (GGGGS)₁ (SEQ ID NO: 42), (GGGGS)₂ (SEQ ID NO: 43), (GGGGS)₄ (SEQ ID NO: 44), (GGGGS)₅ (SEQ ID NO: 45), (GGGGS)₇ (SEQ ID NO: 46), (GGGGS)₈ (SEQ ID NO: 47), (GGGGS)₁₀ (SEQ ID NO: 48), or (GGGGS)₁₁ (SEQ ID NO: 49). Alternative linkers are available, but highly flexible linkers are thought to work best to allow for maximum opportunity for the 2 parts of the Cas9 to come together and thus reconstitute Cas9 activity. One alternative is that the NLS of nucleoplasmin can be used as a linker. For example, a linker can also be used between the Cas9 and any functional domain. Again, a (GGGGS)₃ (SEQ ID NO: 2) linker may be used here (or the 6 (SEQ ID NO: 3), 9 (SEQ ID NO: 4), or 12 repeat (SEQ ID NO: 5) versions therefore) or the NLS of nucleoplasmin can be used as a linker between Cas9 and the functional domain.

Saturating Mutagenesis

With respect to use of the CRISPR-Cas system generally, mention is made of the documents, including patent applications, patents, and patent publications cited throughout this disclosure as embodiments of the invention can be used as in those documents. CRISPR-Cas System(s) can be used to perform saturating or deep scanning mutagenesis of genomic loci in conjunction with a cellular phenotype—for instance, for determining critical minimal features and discrete vulnerabilities of functional elements required for gene expression, drug resistance, and reversal of disease. By saturating or deep scanning mutagenesis is meant that every or essentially every DNA base is cut within the genomic loci. A library of CRISPR-Cas guide RNAs may be introduced into a population of cells. The library may be introduced, such that each cell receives a single guide RNA (sgRNA). In the case where the library is introduced by transduction of a viral vector, as described herein, a low multiplicity of infection (MOI) is used. The library may include sgRNAs targeting every sequence upstream of a (protospacer adjacent motif) (PAM) sequence in a genomic locus. The library may include at least 100 non-overlapping genomic sequences upstream of a PAM sequence for every 1000 base pairs within the genomic locus. The library may include sgRNAs targeting sequences upstream of at least one different PAM sequence. The CRISPR-Cas System(s) may include more than one Cas protein. Any Cas protein as described herein, including orthologues or engineered Cas proteins that recognize different PAM sequences may be used. The frequency of off target sites for a sgRNA may be less than 500. Off target scores may be generated to select sgRNAs with the lowest off target sites. Any phenotype determined to be associated with cutting at a sgRNA target site may be confirmed by using sgRNA's targeting the same site in a single experiment. Validation of a target site may also be performed by using a nickase Cas9, as described herein, and two sgRNAs targeting the genomic site of interest. Not being bound by a theory, a target site is a true hit if the change in phenotype is observed in validation experiments.

The genomic loci may include at least one continuous genomic region. The at least one continuous genomic region may comprise up to the entire genome. The at least one continuous genomic region may comprise a functional element of the genome. The functional element may be within a non-coding region, coding gene, intronic region, promoter, or enhancer. The at least one continuous genomic region may comprise at least 1 kb, preferably at least 50 kb of genomic DNA. The at least one continuous genomic region may comprise a transcription factor binding site. The at least one continuous genomic region may comprise a region of DNase I hypersensitivity. The at least one continuous genomic region may comprise a transcription enhancer or repressor element. The at least one continuous genomic region may comprise a site enriched for an epigenetic signature. The at least one continuous genomic DNA region may comprise an epigenetic insulator. The at least one continuous genomic region may comprise two or more continuous genomic regions that physically interact. Genomic regions that interact may be determined by ‘4C technology’. 4C technology allows the screening of the entire genome in an unbiased manner for DNA segments that physically interact with a DNA fragment of choice, as is in Zhao et al. ((2006) Nat Genet 38, 1341-7) and in U.S. Pat. No. 8,642,295, both incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The epigenetic signature may be histone acetylation, histone methylation, histone ubiquitination, histone phosphorylation, DNA methylation, or a lack thereof.

CRISPR-Cas System(s) for saturating or deep scanning mutagenesis can be used in a population of cells. The CRISPR-Cas System(s) can be used in eukaryotic cells, including but not limited to mammalian and plant cells. The population of cells may be prokaryotic cells. The population of eukaryotic cells may be a population of embryonic stem (ES) cells, neuronal cells, epithelial cells, immune cells, endocrine cells, muscle cells, erythrocytes, lymphocytes, plant cells, or yeast cells.

In one aspect, the present invention provides for a method of screening for functional elements associated with a change in a phenotype. The library may be introduced into a population of cells that are adapted to contain a Cas protein. The cells may be sorted into at least two groups based on the phenotype. The phenotype may be expression of a gene, cell growth, or cell viability. The relative representation of the guide RNAs present in each group are determined, whereby genomic sites associated with the change in phenotype are determined by the representation of guide RNAs present in each group. The change in phenotype may be a change in expression of a gene of interest. The gene of interest may be upregulated, downregulated, or knocked out. The cells may be sorted into a high expression group and a low expression group. The population of cells may include a reporter construct that is used to determine the phenotype. The reporter construct may include a detectable marker. Cells may be sorted by use of the detectable marker.

In another aspect, the present invention provides for a method of screening for genomic sites associated with resistance to a chemical compound. The chemical compound may be a drug or pesticide. The library may be introduced into a population of cells that are adapted to contain a Cas protein, wherein each cell of the population contains no more than one guide RNA; the population of cells are treated with the chemical compound; and the representation of guide RNAs are determined after treatment with the chemical compound at a later time point as compared to an early time point, whereby genomic sites associated with resistance to the chemical compound are determined by enrichment of guide RNAs. Representation of sgRNAs may be determined by deep sequencing methods.

Useful in the practice of the instant invention, reference is made to the article entitled BCL11A enhancer dissection by Cas9-mediated in situ saturating mutagenesis. Canver, M. C., Smith, E. C., Sher, F., Pinello, L., Sanjana, N. E., Shalem, O., Chen, D. D., Schupp, P. G., Vinjamur, D. S., Garcia, S. P., Luc, S., Kurita, R., Nakamura, Y., Fujiwara, Y., Maeda, T., Yuan, G., Zhang, F., Orkin, S. H., & Bauer, D. E. DOI:10.1038/nature15521, published online Sep. 16, 2015, the article is herein incorporated by reference and discussed briefly below:

-   -   Canver et al. describes novel pooled CRISPR-Cas9 guide RNA         libraries to perform in situ saturating mutagenesis of the human         and mouse BCL11A erythroid enhancers previously identified as an         enhancer associated with fetal hemoglobin (HbF) level and whose         mouse ortholog is necessary for erythroid BCL11A expression.         This approach revealed critical minimal features and discrete         vulnerabilities of these enhancers. Through editing of primary         human progenitors and mouse transgenesis, the authors validated         the BCL11A erythroid enhancer as a target for HbF reinduction.         The authors generated a detailed enhancer map that informs         therapeutic genome editing.

Method of Using CRISPR-Cas Systems to Modify a Cell or Organism

The invention in some embodiments comprehends a method of modifying an cell or organism. The cell may be a prokaryotic cell or a eukaryotic cell. The cell may be a mammalian cell. The mammalian cell many be a non-human primate, bovine, porcine, rodent or mouse cell. The cell may be a non-mammalian eukaryotic cell such as poultry, fish or shrimp. The cell may also be a plant cell. The plant cell may be of a crop plant such as cassava, corn, sorghum, wheat, or rice. The plant cell may also be of an algae, tree or vegetable. The modification introduced to the cell by the present invention may be such that the cell and progeny of the cell are altered for improved production of biologic products such as an antibody, starch, alcohol or other desired cellular output. The modification introduced to the cell by the present invention may be such that the cell and progeny of the cell include an alteration that changes the biologic product produced.

The system may comprise one or more different vectors. In an aspect of the invention, the Cas protein is codon optimized for expression the desired cell type, preferentially a eukaryotic cell, preferably a mammalian cell or a human cell.

CRISPR Systems can be Used in Plants

CRISPR-Cas system(s) (e.g., single or multiplexed) can be used in conjunction with recent advances in crop genomics. Such CRISPR-Cas system(s) can be used to perform efficient and cost effective plant gene or genome interrogation or editing or manipulation—for instance, for rapid investigation and/or selection and/or interrogations and/or comparison and/or manipulations and/or transformation of plant genes or genomes; e.g., to create, identify, develop, optimize, or confer trait(s) or characteristic(s) to plant(s) or to transform a plant genome. There can accordingly be improved production of plants, new plants with new combinations of traits or characteristics or new plants with enhanced traits. Such CRISPR-Cas system(s) can be used with regard to plants in Site-Directed Integration (SDI) or Gene Editing (GE) or any Near Reverse Breeding (NRB) or Reverse Breeding (RB) techniques. With respect to use of the CRISPR-Cas system in plants, mention is made of the University of Arizona website “CRISPR-PLANT” (http://www.genome.arizona.edu/crispr/) (supported by Penn State and AGI). Embodiments of the invention can be used in genome editing in plants or where RNAi or similar genome editing techniques have been used previously; see, e.g., Nekrasov, “Plant genome editing made easy: targeted mutagenesis in model and crop plants using the CRISPR/Cas system,” Plant Methods 2013, 9:39 (doi:10.1186/1746-4811-9-39); Brooks, “Efficient gene editing in tomato in the first generation using the CRISPR/Cas9 system,” Plant Physiology September 2014 pp 114.247577; Shan, “Targeted genome modification of crop plants using a CRISPR-Cas system,” Nature Biotechnology 31, 686-688 (2013); Feng, “Efficient genome editing in plants using a CRISPR/Cas system,” Cell Research (2013) 23:1229-1232. doi:10.1038/cr.2013.114; published online 20 Aug. 2013; Xie, “RNA-guided genome editing in plants using a CRISPR-Cas system,” Mol Plant. 2013 November; 6(6):1975-83. doi: 10.1093/mp/sst119. Epub 2013 August 17; Xu, “Gene targeting using the Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated CRISPR-Cas system in rice,” Rice 2014, 7:5 (2014), Zhou et al., “Exploiting SNPs for biallelic CRISPR mutations in the outcrossing woody perennial Populus reveals 4-coumarate: CoA ligase specificity and Redundancy,” New Phytologist (2015) (Forum) 1-4 (available online only at www.newphytologist.com); Caliando et al, “Targeted DNA degradation using a CRISPR device stably carried in the host genome, NATURE COMMUNICATIONS 6:6989, DOI: 10.1038/ncomms7989, www.nature.com/naturecommunications DOI: 10.1038/ncomms7989; U.S. Pat. No. 6,603,061—Agrobacterium-Mediated Plant Transformation Method; U.S. Pat. No. 7,868,149—Plant Genome Sequences and Uses Thereof and US 2009/0100536—Transgenic Plants with Enhanced Agronomic Traits, all the contents and disclosure of each of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety. In the practice of the invention, the contents and disclosure of Morrell et al “Crop genomics: advances and applications,” Nat Rev Genet. 2011 Dec. 29; 13(2):85-96; each of which is incorporated by reference herein including as to how herein embodiments may be used as to plants. Accordingly, reference herein to animal cells may also apply, mutatis mutandis, to plant cells unless otherwise apparent; and, the enzymes herein having reduced off-target effects and systems employing such enzymes can be used in plant applications, including those mentioned herein.

Sugano et al. (Plant Cell Physiol. 2014 March; 55(3):475-81. doi: 10.1093/pcp/pcu014. Epub 2014 Jan. 18) reports the application of CRISPR/Cas9 to targeted mutagenesis in the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha L., which has emerged as a model species for studying land plant evolution. The U6 promoter of M. polymorpha was identified and cloned to express the gRNA. The target sequence of the gRNA was designed to disrupt the gene encoding auxin response factor 1 (ARF1) in M. polymorpha. Using Agrobacterium-mediated transformation, Sugano et al. isolated stable mutants in the gametophyte generation of M. polymorpha. CRISPR/Cas9-based site-directed mutagenesis in vivo was achieved using either the Cauliflower mosaic virus 35S or M. polymorpha EF1α promoter to express Cas9. Isolated mutant individuals showing an auxin-resistant phenotype were not chimeric. Moreover, stable mutants were produced by asexual reproduction of T1 plants. Multiple arf1 alleles were easily established using CRIPSR/Cas9-based targeted mutagenesis. The methods of Sugano et al. may be applied to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention.

Kabadi et al. (Nucleic Acids Res. 2014 Oct. 29; 42(19):e147. doi: 10.1093/nar/gku749. Epub 2014 August 13) developed a single lentiviral system to express a Cas9 variant, a reporter gene and up to four sgRNAs from independent RNA polymerase III promoters that are incorporated into the vector by a convenient Golden Gate cloning method. Each sgRNA was efficiently expressed and can mediate multiplex gene editing and sustained transcriptional activation in immortalized and primary human cells. The methods of Kabadi et al. may be applied to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention.

Ling et al. (BMC Plant Biology 2014, 14:327) developed a CRISPR/Cas9 binary vector set based on the pGreen or pCAMBIA backbone, as well as a gRNA This toolkit requires no restriction enzymes besides BsaI to generate final constructs harboring maize-codon optimized Cas9 and one or more gRNAs with high efficiency in as little as one cloning step. The toolkit was validated using maize protoplasts, transgenic maize lines, and transgenic Arabidopsis lines and was shown to exhibit high efficiency and specificity. More importantly, using this toolkit, targeted mutations of three Arabidopsis genes were detected in transgenic seedlings of the T1 generation. Moreover, the multiple-gene mutations could be inherited by the next generation. (guide RNA) module vector set, as a toolkit for multiplex genome editing in plants. The toolbox of Lin et al. may be applied to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention.

Protocols for targeted plant genome editing via CRISPR/Cas9 are also available in volume 1284 of the series Methods in Molecular Biology pp 239-255 10 Feb. 2015. A detailed procedure to design, construct, and evaluate dual gRNAs for plant codon optimized Cas9 (pcoCas9) mediated genome editing using Arabidopsis thaliana and Nicotiana benthamiana protoplasts s model cellular systems is involved. Strategies to apply the CRISPR/Cas9 system to generating targeted genome modifications in whole plants are also discussed. The protocols in the chapter may be applied to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention.

Ma et al. (Mol Plant. 2015 August 3; 8(8):1274-84. doi: 10.1016/j.molp.2015.04.007) reports robust CRISPR/Cas9 vector system, utilizing a plant codon optimized Cas9 gene, for convenient and high-efficiency multiplex genome editing in monocot and dicot plants. Ma et al. designed PCR-based procedures to rapidly generate multiple sgRNA expression cassettes, which can be assembled into the binary CRISPR/Cas9 vectors in one round of cloning by Golden Gate ligation or Gibson Assembly. With this system, Ma et al. edited 46 target sites in rice with an average 85.4% rate of mutation, mostly in biallelic and homozygous status. Ma et al. provide examples of loss-of-function gene mutations in T0 rice and T1 Arabidopsis plants by simultaneous targeting of multiple (up to eight) members of a gene family, multiple genes in a biosynthetic pathway, or multiple sites in a single gene. The methods of Ma et al. may be applied to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention.

Lowder et al. (Plant Physiol. 2015 August 21. pii: pp. 00636.2015) also developed a CRISPR/Cas9 toolbox enables multiplex genome editing and transcriptional regulation of expressed, silenced or non-coding genes in plants. This toolbox provides researchers with a protocol and reagents to quickly and efficiently assemble functional CRISPR/Cas9 T-DNA constructs for monocots and dicots using Golden Gate and Gateway cloning methods. It comes with a full suite of capabilities, including multiplexed gene editing and transcriptional activation or repression of plant endogenous genes. T-DNA based transformation technology is fundamental to modern plant biotechnology, genetics, molecular biology and physiology. As such, Applicants developed a method for the assembly of Cas9 (WT, nickase or dCas9) and gRNA(s) into a T-DNA destination-vector of interest. The assembly method is based on both Golden Gate assembly and MultiSite Gateway recombination. Three modules are required for assembly. The first module is a Cas9 entry vector, which contains promoterless Cas9 or its derivative genes flanked by attL1 and attR5 sites. The second module is a gRNA entry vector which contains entry gRNA expression cassettes flanked by attL5 and attL2 sites. The third module includes attR1-attR2-containing destination T-DNA vectors that provide promoters of choice for Cas9 expression. The toolbox of Lowder et al. may be applied to the CRISPR Cas9 system of the present invention.

Petersen (“Towards precisely glycol engineered plants,” Plant Biotech Denmark Annual meeting 2015, Copenhagen, Denmark) developed a method of using CRISPR/Cas9 to engineer genome changes in Arabidopsis, for example to glyco engineer Arabidopsis for production of proteins and products having desired posttranslational modifications. Hebelstrup et al. (Front Plant Sci. 2015 Apr. 23; 6:247) outlines in planta starch bioengineering, providing crops that express starch modifying enzymes and directly produce products that normally are made by industrial chemical and/or physical treatments of starches. The methods of Petersen and Hebelstrup may be applied to the CRISPR-Cas9 system of the present invention.

In an advantageous embodiment, the plant may be a tree. The present invention may also utilize the herein disclosed CRISPR Cas system for herbaceous systems (see, e.g., Belhaj et al., Plant Methods 9: 39 and Harrison et al., Genes & Development 28: 1859-1872). In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention may target single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in trees (see, e.g., Zhou et al., New Phytologist, Volume 208, Issue 2, pages 298-301, October 2015). In the Zhou et al. study, the authors applied a CRISPR Cas system in the woody perennial Populus using the 4-coumarate:CoA ligase (4CL) gene family as a case study and achieved 100% mutational efficiency for two 4CL genes targeted, with every transformant examined carrying biallelic modifications. In the Zhou et al., study, the CRISPR/Cas9 system was highly sensitive to single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), as cleavage for a third 4CL gene was abolished due to SNPs in the target sequence.

The methods of Zhou et al. (New Phytologist, Volume 208, Issue 2, pages 298-301, October 2015) may be applied to the present invention as follows. Two 4CL genes, 4CL1 and 4CL2, associated with lignin and flavonoid biosynthesis, respectively are targeted for CRISPR/Cas9 editing. The Populus tremula×alba clone 717-1B4 routinely used for transformation is divergent from the genome-sequenced Populus trichocarpa. Therefore, the 4CL1 and 4CL2 gRNAs designed from the reference genome are interrogated with in-house 717 RNA-Seq data to ensure the absence of SNPs which could limit Cas efficiency. A third gRNA designed for 4CL5, a genome duplicate of 4CL1, is also included. The corresponding 717 sequence harbors one SNP in each allele near/within the PAM, both of which are expected to abolish targeting by the 4CL5-gRNA. All three gRNA target sites are located within the first exon. For 717 transformation, the gRNA is expressed from the Medicago U6.6 promoter, along with a human codon-optimized Cas under control of the CaMV 35S promoter in a binary vector. Transformation with the Cas-only vector can serve as a control. Randomly selected 4CL1 and 4CL2 lines are subjected to amplicon-sequencing. The data is then processed and biallelic mutations are confirmed in all cases.

In plants, pathogens are often host-specific. For example, Fusarium oxysporum f sp. lycopersici causes tomato wilt but attacks only tomato, and F. oxysporum f. dianthii Puccinia graminis f sp. tritici attacks only wheat. Plants have existing and induced defenses to resist most pathogens. Mutations and recombination events across plant generations lead to genetic variability that gives rise to susceptibility, especially as pathogens reproduce with more frequency than plants. In plants there can be non-host resistance, e.g., the host and pathogen are incompatible. There can also be Horizontal Resistance, e.g., partial resistance against all races of a pathogen, typically controlled by many genes and Vertical Resistance, e.g., complete resistance to some races of a pathogen but not to other races, typically controlled by a few genes. In a Gene-for-Gene level, plants and pathogens evolve together, and the genetic changes in one balance changes in other. Accordingly, using Natural Variability, breeders combine most useful genes for Yield, Quality, Uniformity, Hardiness, Resistance. The sources of resistance genes include native or foreign Varieties, Heirloom Varieties, Wild Plant Relatives, and Induced Mutations, e.g., treating plant material with mutagenic agents. Using the present invention, plant breeders are provided with a new tool to induce mutations. Accordingly, one skilled in the art can analyze the genome of sources of resistance genes, and in Varieties having desired characteristics or traits employ the present invention to induce the rise of resistance genes, with more precision than previous mutagenic agents and hence accelerate and improve plant breeding programs.

Applications to Plants and Yeasts; Application to Biofuels Application of Cas9-CRISPR System to Plants and Yeasts Definitions

In general, the term “plant” relates to any various photosynthetic, eukaryotic, unicellular or multicellular organism of the kingdom Plantae characteristically growing by cell division, containing chloroplasts, and having cell walls comprised of cellulose. The term plant encompasses monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous plants. Specifically, the plants are intended to comprise without limitation angiosperm and gymnosperm plants such as acacia, alfalfa, amaranth, apple, apricot, artichoke, ash tree, asparagus, avocado, banana, barley, beans, beet, birch, beech, blackberry, blueberry, broccoli, Brussel's sprouts, cabbage, canola, cantaloupe, carrot, cassava, cauliflower, cedar, a cereal, celery, chestnut, cherry, Chinese cabbage, citrus, clementine, clover, coffee, corn, cotton, cowpea, cucumber, cypress, eggplant, elm, endive, eucalyptus, fennel, figs, fir, geranium, grape, grapefruit, groundnuts, ground cherry, gum hemlock, hickory, kale, kiwifruit, kohlrabi, larch, lettuce, leek, lemon, lime, locust, pine, maidenhair, maize, mango, maple, melon, millet, mushroom, mustard, nuts, oak, oats, oil palm, okra, onion, orange, an ornamental plant or flower or tree, papaya, palm, parsley, parsnip, pea, peach, peanut, pear, peat, pepper, persimmon, pigeon pea, pine, pineapple, plantain, plum, pomegranate, potato, pumpkin, radicchio, radish, rapeseed, raspberry, rice, rye, sorghum, safflower, sallow, soybean, spinach, spruce, squash, strawberry, sugar beet, sugarcane, sunflower, sweet potato, sweet corn, tangerine, tea, tobacco, tomato, trees, triticale, turf grasses, turnips, vine, walnut, watercress, watermelon, wheat, yams, yew, and zucchini. The term plant also encompasses Algae, which are mainly photoautotrophs unified primarily by their lack of roots, leaves and other organs that characterize higher plants.

The methods for genome editing using the CRISPR/Cas9 system as described herein can be used to confer desired traits on essentially any plant A wide variety of plants and plant cell systems may be engineered for the desired physiological and agronomic characteristics described herein using the nucleic acid constructs of the present disclosure and the various transformation methods mentioned above. In preferred embodiments, target plants and plant cells for engineering include, but are not limited to, those monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous plants, such as crops including grain crops (e.g., wheat, maize, rice, millet, barley), fruit crops (e.g., tomato, apple, pear, strawberry, orange), forage crops (e.g., alfalfa), root vegetable crops (e.g., carrot, potato, sugar beets, yam), leafy vegetable crops (e.g., lettuce, spinach); flowering plants (e.g., petunia, rose, chrysanthemum), conifers and pine trees (e.g., pine fir, spruce); plants used in phytoremediation (e.g.; heavy metal accumulating plants); oil crops (e.g., sunflower, rape seed) and plants used for experimental purposes (e.g., Arabidopsis). Thus, the methods and CRISPR-Cas systems can be used over a broad range of plants, such as for example with dicotyledonous plants belonging to the orders Magniolales, Illiciales, Laurales; Piperales, Aristochiales, Nymphaeales, Ranunculales, Papeverales, Sarraceniaceae, Trochodendrales, Hamamelidales, Eucomiales, Leitneriales, Myricales, Fagales, Casuarinales, Caryophyllales, Batales, Polygonales, Plumbaginales, Dilleniales, Theales, Malvales, Urticales, Lecythidales, Violales, Salicales, Capparales, Ericales, Diapensales, Ebenales, Primulales, Rosales, Fabales, Podostemales, Haloragales, Myrtales, Comales, Proteales, San tales, Rafflesiales, Celastrales, Euphorbiales, Rhamnales, Sapindales, Juglandales, Geraniales, Polygalales, Umbellales, Gentianales, Polemoniales, Lamiales, Piantaginales, Scrophulariales, Campanulales, Rubiales, Dipsacales, and Asterales; the methods and CRISPR-Cas systems can be used with monocotyledonous plants such as those belonging to the orders Alismatales, Hydrocharitales, Najadales, Triuridales, Commelinales, Eriocaulales, Restionales, Poales, Juncales, Cyperales, Typhales, Bromeliales, Zingiberales, Arecales, Cyclanthales, Pandanales, Arales, Lilliales, and Orchid ales, or with plants belonging to Gymnospermae, e.g those belonging to the orders Pinales, Ginkgoales, Cycadales, Araucariales, Cupressales and Gnetales.

The CRISPR/Cas9 systems and methods of use described herein can be used over a broad range of plant species, included in the non-limitative list of dicot, monocot or gymnosperm genera hereunder: Atropa, Alseodaphne, Anacardium, Arachis, Beilschmiedia, Brassica, Carthamus, Cocculus, Croton, Cucumis, Citrus, Citrullus, Capsicum, Catharanthus, Cocos, Coffea, Cucurbita, Daucus, Duguetia, Eschscholzia, Fragaria, Glaucium, Glycine, Gossypium, Helianthus, Hevea, Hyoscyamus, Lactuca, Landolphia, Liam, Litsea, Lycopersicon, Lupinus, Manihot, Majorana, Malis, Medicago, Nicotiana, Parthenium, Papaver, Persea, Phaseolus, Pistacia, Pisum, Pyrus, Prunus, Raphanus, Ricinus, Senecio, Sinomenium, Stephania, Sinapis, Solanum, Theobroma, Trifolium, Trigonella, Vida, Vinca, and Vigna; and the genera Allium, Andropogon, Aragrostis, Asparagus, Avena, Cynodon, Elaeis, Festuca, Festulolium, Heterocallis, Hordeum, Lemnna, Lolium, Musa, Oryza, Panicum, Pannesetum, Phleum, Poa, Secale, Sorghum, Triticum, Zea, Abies, Cunninghamia, Ephedra, Picea, Pinus, and Pseudotsuga.

The CRISPR/Cas9 systems and methods of use can also be used over a broad range of “algae” or “algae cells”; including for example algea selected from several eukaryotic phyla, including the Rhodophyta (red algae), Chlorophyta (green algae), Phaeophyta (brown algae), Bacillariophyta (diatoms), Eustigmatophyta and dinoflagellates as well as the prokaryotic phylum Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae). The term “algae” includes for example algae selected from: Amphora, Anabaena, Anikstrodesmis, Botryococcus, Chaetoceros, Chlamydomonas, Chlorella, Chlorococcum, Cyclotella, Cylindrotheca, Dunaliella, Emiliana, Euglena, Hematococcus, Isochrysis, Monochrysis, Monoraphidium, Nannochloris, Nannnochloropsis, Navicula, Nephrochloris, Nephroselmis, Nitzschia, Nodularia, Nostoc, Oochromonas, Oocystis, Oscillartoria, Pavlova, Phaeodactyium, Playtmonas, Pleurochrysis, Porhyra, Pseudoanabaena, Pyramimonas, Stichococcus, Synechococcus, Synechocystis, Tetraselmis, Thalassiosira, and Trichodesmium.

A part of a plant, i.e., a “plant tissue” may be treated according to the methods of the present invention to produce an improved plant. Plant tissue also encompasses plant cells. The term “plant cell” as used herein refers to individual units of a living plant, either in an intact whole plant or in an isolated form grown in in vitro tissue cultures, on media or agar, in suspension in a growth media or buffer or as a part of higher organized unites, such as, for example, plant tissue, a plant organ, or a whole plant.

A “protoplast” refers to a plant cell that has had its protective cell wall completely or partially removed using, for example, mechanical or enzymatic means resulting in an intact biochemical competent unit of living plant that can reform their cell wall, proliferate and regenerate grow into a whole plant under proper growing conditions.

The term “transformation” broadly refers to the process by which a plant host is genetically modified by the introduction of DNA by means of Agrobacteria or one of a variety of chemical or physical methods. As used herein, the term “plant host” refers to plants, including any cells, tissues, organs, or progeny of the plants. Many suitable plant tissues or plant cells can be transformed and include, but are not limited to, protoplasts, somatic embryos, pollen, leaves, seedlings, stems, calli, stolons, microtubers, and shoots. A plant tissue also refers to any clone of such a plant, seed, progeny, propagule whether generated sexually or asexually, and descendants of any of these, such as cuttings or seed.

The term “transformed” as used herein, refers to a cell, tissue, organ, or organism into which a foreign DNA molecule, such as a construct, has been introduced. The introduced DNA molecule may be integrated into the genomic DNA of the recipient cell, tissue, organ, or organism such that the introduced DNA molecule is transmitted to the subsequent progeny. In these embodiments, the “transformed” or “transgenic” cell or plant may also include progeny of the cell or plant and progeny produced from a breeding program employing such a transformed plant as a parent in a cross and exhibiting an altered phenotype resulting from the presence of the introduced DNA molecule. Preferably, the transgenic plant is fertile and capable of transmitting the introduced DNA to progeny through sexual reproduction.

The term “progeny”, such as the progeny of a transgenic plant, is one that is born of, begotten by, or derived from a plant or the transgenic plant. The introduced DNA molecule may also be transiently introduced into the recipient cell such that the introduced DNA molecule is not inherited by subsequent progeny and thus not considered “transgenic”. Accordingly, as used herein, a “non-transgenic” plant or plant cell is a plant which does not contain a foreign DNA stably integrated into its genome.

The term “plant promoter” as used herein is a promoter capable of initiating transcription in plant cells, whether or not its origin is a plant cell. Exemplary suitable plant promoters include, but are not limited to, those that are obtained from plants, plant viruses, and bacteria such as Agrobacterium or Rhizobium which comprise genes expressed in plant cells.

As used herein, a “fungal cell” refers to any type of eukaryotic cell within the kingdom of fungi. Phyla within the kingdom of fungi include Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, Blastocladiomycota, Chytridiomycota, Glomeromycota, Microsporidia, and Neocallimastigomycota. Fungal cells may include yeasts, molds, and filamentous fungi. In some embodiments, the fungal cell is a yeast cell.

As used herein, the term “yeast cell” refers to any fungal cell within the phyla Ascomycota and Basidiomycota. Yeast cells may include budding yeast cells, fission yeast cells, and mold cells. Without being limited to these organisms, many types of yeast used in laboratory and industrial settings are part of the phylum Ascomycota. In some embodiments, the yeast cell is an S. cerervisiae, Kluyveromyces marxianus, or Issatchenkia orientalis cell. Other yeast cells may include without limitation Candida spp. (e.g., Candida albicans), Yarrowia spp. (e.g., Yarrowia lipolytica), Pichia spp. (e.g., Pichia pastoris), Kluyveromyces spp. (e.g., Kluyveromyces lactis and Kluyveromyces marxianus), Neurospora spp. (e.g., Neurospora crassa), Fusarium spp. (e.g., Fusarium oxysporum), and Issatchenkia spp. (e.g., Issatchenkia orientalis, a.k.a. Pichia kudriavzevii and Candida acidothermophilum). In some embodiments, the fungal cell is a filamentous fungal cell. As used herein, the term “filamentous fungal cell” refers to any type of fungal cell that grows in filaments, i.e., hyphae or mycelia. Examples of filamentous fungal cells may include without limitation Aspergillus spp. (e.g., Aspergillus niger), Trichoderma spp. (e.g., Trichoderma reesei), Rhizopus spp. (e.g., Rhizopus oryzae), and Mortierella spp. (e.g., Mortierella isabellina).

In some embodiments, the fungal cell is an industrial strain. As used herein, “industrial strain” refers to any strain of fungal cell used in or isolated from an industrial process, e.g., production of a product on a commercial or industrial scale. Industrial strain may refer to a fungal species that is typically used in an industrial process, or it may refer to an isolate of a fungal species that may be also used for non-industrial purposes (e.g., laboratory research). Examples of industrial processes may include fermentation (e.g., in production of food or beverage products), distillation, biofuel production, production of a compound, and production of a polypeptide. Examples of industrial strains may include, without limitation, JAY270 and ATCC4124.

In some embodiments, the fungal cell is a polyploid cell. As used herein, a “polyploid” cell may refer to any cell whose genome is present in more than one copy. A polyploid cell may refer to a type of cell that is naturally found in a polyploid state, or it may refer to a cell that has been induced to exist in a polyploid state (e.g., through specific regulation, alteration, inactivation, activation, or modification of meiosis, cytokinesis, or DNA replication). A polyploid cell may refer to a cell whose entire genome is polyploid, or it may refer to a cell that is polyploid in a particular genomic locus of interest. Without wishing to be bound to theory, it is thought that the abundance of guideRNA may more often be a rate-limiting component in genome engineering of polyploid cells than in haploid cells, and thus the methods using the CRISPR/Cas9 system described herein may take advantage of using a certain fungal cell type.

In some embodiments, the fungal cell is a diploid cell. As used herein, a “diploid” cell may refer to any cell whose genome is present in two copies. A diploid cell may refer to a type of cell that is naturally found in a diploid state, or it may refer to a cell that has been induced to exist in a diploid state (e.g., through specific regulation, alteration, inactivation, activation, or modification of meiosis, cytokinesis, or DNA replication). For example, the S. cerevisiae strain S228C may be maintained in a haploid or diploid state. A diploid cell may refer to a cell whose entire genome is diploid, or it may refer to a cell that is diploid in a particular genomic locus of interest. In some embodiments, the fungal cell is a haploid cell. As used herein, a “haploid” cell may refer to any cell whose genome is present in one copy. A haploid cell may refer to a type of cell that is naturally found in a haploid state, or it may refer to a cell that has been induced to exist in a haploid state (e.g., through specific regulation, alteration, inactivation, activation, or modification of meiosis, cytokinesis, or DNA replication). For example, the S. cerevisiae strain S228C may be maintained in a haploid or diploid state. A haploid cell may refer to a cell whose entire genome is haploid, or it may refer to a cell that is haploid in a particular genomic locus of interest.

As used herein, a “yeast expression vector” refers to a nucleic acid that contains one or more sequences encoding an RNA and/or polypeptide and may further contain any desired elements that control the expression of the nucleic acid(s), as well as any elements that enable the replication and maintenance of the expression vector inside the yeast cell. Many suitable yeast expression vectors and features thereof are known in the art; for example, various vectors and techniques are illustrated in in Yeast Protocols, 2nd edition, Xiao, W., ed. (Humana Press, New York, 2007) and Buckholz, R. G. and Gleeson, M. A. (1991) Biotechnology (NY) 9(11): 1067-72. Yeast vectors may contain, without limitation, a centromeric (CEN) sequence, an autonomous replication sequence (ARS), a promoter, such as an RNA Polymerase III promoter, operably linked to a sequence or gene of interest, a terminator such as an RNA polymerase III terminator, an origin of replication, and a marker gene (e.g., auxotrophic, antibiotic, or other selectable markers). Examples of expression vectors for use in yeast may include plasmids, yeast artificial chromosomes, 2μ plasmids, yeast integrative plasmids, yeast replicative plasmids, shuttle vectors, and episomal plasmids.

Stable Integration of CRISPR/Cas9 System Components in the Genome of Plants and Plant Cells

In particular embodiments, it is envisaged that the polynucleotides encoding the components of the CRISPR/Cas9 system are introduced for stable integration into the genome of a plant cell. In these embodiments, the design of the transformation vector or the expression system can be adjusted depending on for when, where and under what conditions the chi/sgRNA and/or the Cas9 gene are expressed.

In particular embodiments, it is envisaged to introduce the components of the CRISPR/Cas9 system stably into the genomic DNA of a plant cell. Additionally or alternatively, it is envisaged to introduce the components of the CRISPR/Cas9 system for stable integration into the DNA of a plant organelle such as, but not limited to a plastid, e mitochondrion or a chloroplast.

The expression system for stable integration into the genome of a plant cell may contain one or more of the following elements: a promoter element that can be used to express the RNA and/or Cas9 enzyme in a plant cell; a 5′ untranslated region to enhance expression; an intron element to further enhance expression in certain cells, such as monocot cells; a multiple-cloning site to provide convenient restriction sites for inserting the chi/sgRNA and/or the Cas9 gene sequences and other desired elements; and a 3′ untranslated region to provide for efficient termination of the expressed transcript.

The elements of the expression system may be on one or more expression constructs which are either circular such as a plasmid or transformation vector, or non-circular such as linear double stranded DNA.

In a particular embodiment, a CRISPR-Cas9 expression system comprises at least:

-   (a) a nucleotide sequence encoding a guide or chi/sgRNA that     hybridizes with a target sequence in a plant, and wherein the guide     or chi/sgRNA comprises a guide sequence and a direct repeat     sequence, and -   (b) a nucleotide sequence encoding a Cas9 protein,     wherein components (a) or (b) are located on the same or on     different constructs, and whereby the different nucleotide sequences     can be under control of the same or a different regulatory element     operable in a plant cell.

DNA construct(s) containing the components of the CRISPR/Cas9 system, and, where applicable, template sequence may be introduced into the genome of a plant, plant part, or plant cell by a variety of conventional techniques. The process generally comprises the steps of selecting a suitable host cell or host tissue, introducing the construct(s) into the host cell or host tissue, and regenerating plant cells or plants therefrom.

In particular embodiments, the DNA construct may be introduced into the plant cell using techniques such as but not limited to electroporation, microinjection, aerosol beam injection of plant cell protoplasts, or the DNA constructs can be introduced directly to plant tissue using biolistic methods, such as DNA particle bombardment (see also Fu et al., Transgenic Res. 2000 February; 9(1):11-9). The basis of particle bombardment is the acceleration of particles coated with gene/s of interest toward cells, resulting in the penetration of the protoplasm by the particles and typically stable integration into the genome. (see e.g. Klein et al, Nature (1987), Klein et ah, Bio/Technology (1992), Casas et ah, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA (1993)).

In particular embodiments, the DNA constructs containing components of the CRISPR/Cas9 system may be introduced into the plant by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. The DNA constructs may be combined with suitable T-DNA flanking regions and introduced into a conventional Agrobacterium tumefaciens host vector. The foreign DNA can be incorporated into the genome of plants by infecting the plants or by incubating plant protoplasts with Agrobacterium bacteria, containing one or more Ti (tumor-inducing) plasmids. (see e.g. Fraley et al., (1985), Rogers et al., (1987) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,563,055).

Plant Promoters

In order to ensure appropriate expression in a plant cell, the components of the CRISPR/Cas9 system described herein are typically placed under control of a plant promoter, i.e. a promoter operable in plant cells. The use of different types of promoters is envisaged.

A constitutive plant promoter is a promoter that is able to express the open reading frame (ORF) that it controls in all or nearly all of the plant tissues during all or nearly all developmental stages of the plant (referred to as “constitutive expression”). One non-limiting example of a constitutive promoter is the cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter. “Regulated promoter” refers to promoters that direct gene expression not constitutively, but in a temporally- and/or spatially-regulated manner, and includes tissue-specific, tissue-preferred and inducible promoters. Different promoters may direct the expression of a gene in different tissues or cell types, or at different stages of development, or in response to different environmental conditions. In particular embodiments, one or more of the CRISPR/Cas9 components are expressed under the control of a constitutive promoter, such as the cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter issue—preferred promoters can be utilized to target enhanced expression in certain cell types within a particular plant tissue, for instance vascular cells in leaves or roots or in specific cells of the seed. Examples of particular promoters for use in the CRISPR/Cas9 system—are found in Kawamata et al., (1997) Plant Cell Physiol 38:792-803; Yamamoto et al., (1997) Plant J 12:255-65; Hire et al, (1992) Plant Mol Biol 20:207-18,Kuster et al, (1995) Plant Mol Biol. 29:759-72, and Capana et al., (1994) Plant Mol Biol 25:681-91.

Examples of promoters that are inducible and that allow for spatiotemporal control of gene editing or gene expression may use a form of energy. The form of energy may include but is not limited to sound energy, electromagnetic radiation, chemical energy and/or thermal energy. Examples of inducible systems include tetracycline inducible promoters (Tet-On or Tet-Off), small molecule two-hybrid transcription activations systems (FKBP, ABA, etc), or light inducible systems (Phytochrome, LOV domains, or cryptochrome), such as a Light Inducible Transcriptional Effector (LITE) that direct changes in transcriptional activity in a sequence-specific manner. The components of a light inducible system may include a CRISPR/Cas9 enzyme, a light-responsive cytochrome heterodimer (e.g. from Arabidopsis thaliana), and a transcriptional activation/repression domain. Further examples of inducible DNA binding proteins and methods for their use are provided in U.S. 61/736,465 and U.S. 61/721,283, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In particular embodiments, transient or inducible expression can be achieved by using, for example, chemical-regulated promotors, i.e. whereby the application of an exogenous chemical induces gene expression. Modulating of gene expression can also be obtained by a chemical-repressible promoter, where application of the chemical represses gene expression. Chemical-inducible promoters include, but are not limited to, the maize ln2-2 promoter, activated by benzene sulfonamide herbicide safeners (De Veylder et al., (1997) Plant Cell Physiol 38:568-77), the maize GST promoter (GST-11-27, WO93/01294), activated by hydrophobic electrophilic compounds used as pre-emergent herbicides, and the tobacco PR-1 a promoter (Ono et al., (2004) Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 68:803-7) activated by salicylic acid. Promoters which are regulated by antibiotics, such as tetracycline-inducible and tetracycline-repressible promoters (Gatz et al.; (1991) Mol Gen Genet 227:229-37; U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,814,618 and 5,789,156) can also be used herein.

Translocation to and/or Expression in Specific Plant Organelles

The expression system may comprise elements for translocation to and/or expression in a specific plant organelle.

Chloroplast Targeting

In particular embodiments, it is envisaged that the CRISPR/Cas9 system is used to specifically modify chloroplast genes or to ensure expression in the chloroplast. For this purpose use is made of chloroplast transformation methods or compartmentalization of the CRISPR/Cas9 system components to the chloroplast. For instance, the introduction of genetic modifications in the plastid genome can reduce biosafety issues such as gene flow through pollen,

Methods of chloroplast transformation are known in the art and include Particle bombardment, PEG treatment, and microinjection. Additionally, methods involving the translocation of transformation cassettes from the nuclear genome to the plastid can be used as described in WO2010061186.

Alternatively, it is envisaged to target one or more of the CRISPR/Cas9 system components to the plant chloroplast. This is achieved by incorporating in the expression construct a sequence encoding a chloroplast transit peptide (CTP) or plastid transit peptide, operably linked to the 5′ region of the sequence encoding the Cas9 protein. The CTP is removed in a processing step during translocation into the chloroplast. Chloroplast targeting of expressed proteins is well known to the skilled artisan (see for instance Protein Transport into Chloroplasts, 2010, Annual Review of Plant Biology, Vol. 61: 157-180) In such embodiments it is also desired to target the chi/sgRNA to the plant chloroplast. Methods and constructs which can be used for translocating chi/sgRNA into the chloroplast by means of a chloroplast localization sequence are described, for instance, in US 20040142476, incorporated herein by reference. Such variations of constructs can be incorporated into the expression systems of the invention to efficiently translocate the Cas9-chi/sgRNA.

Introduction of Polynucleotides Encoding the CRISPR-Cas9 System in Algal Cells.

Transgenic algae (or other plants such as rape) may be particularly useful in the production of vegetable oils or biofuels such as alcohols (especially methanol and ethanol) or other products. These may be engineered to express or overexpress high levels of oil or alcohols for use in the oil or biofuel industries.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,945,839 describes a method for engineering Micro-Algae (Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cells) species) using Cas9. Similarly, the CRISPR/Cas9 system described herein can be applied on Chlamydomonas species and other algae. In particular embodiments, Cas9 and chi/sgRNA are introduced in algae expressed using a vector that expresses Cas9 under the control of a constitutive promoter such as Hsp70A-Rbc S2 or Beta2-tubulin. Chi/sgRNA is optionally delivered using a vector containing T7 promoter. Alternatively, Cas9 mRNA and in vitro transcribed chi/sgRNA can be delivered to algal cells. Electroporation protocols are available to the skilled person such as the standard recommended protocol from the GeneArt Chlamydomonas Engineering kit.

In particular embodiments, the endonuclease used herein is a Split Cas9 enzyme. Split Cas9 enzymes are preferentially used in Algae for targeted genome modification as has been described in WO 2015086795. Use of the Cas9 split system is particularly suitable for an inducible method of genome targeting and avoids the potential toxic effect of the Cas9 overexpression within the algae cell. In particular embodiments, Said Cas9 split domains (RuvC and HNH domains) can be simultaneously or sequentially introduced into the cell such that said split Cas9 domain(s) process the target nucleic acid sequence in the algae cell. The reduced size of the split Cas9 compared to the wild type Cas9 allows other methods of delivery of the CRISPR system to the cells, such as the use of Cell Penetrating Peptides as described herein. This method is of particular interest for generating genetically modified algae.

Introduction of Polynucleotides Encoding Cas9 Components in Yeast Cells

In particular embodiments, the invention relates to the use of the CRISPR/Cas9 system for genome editing of yeast cells. Methods for transforming yeast cells which can be used to introduce polynucleotides encoding the CRISPR/Cas9 system components are well known to the artisan and are reviewed by Kawai et al., 2010, Bioeng Bugs. 2010 November-December; 1(6): 395-403). Non-limiting examples include transformation of yeast cells by lithium acetate treatment (which may further include carrier DNA and PEG treatment), bombardment or by electroporation.

Transient Expression of Cas9 CRISP System Components in Plants and Plant Cell

In particular embodiments, it is envisaged that the chi/sgRNA and/or Cas9 gene are transiently expressed in the plant cell. In these embodiments, the CRISPR/Cas9 system can ensure modification of a target gene only when both the chi/sgRNA and the Cas9 protein is present in a cell, such that genomic modification can further be controlled. As the expression of the Cas9 enzyme is transient, plants regenerated from such plant cells typically contain no foreign DNA. In particular embodiments the Cas9 enzyme is stably expressed by the plant cell and the guide sequence is transiently expressed.

In particular embodiments, the CRISPR/Cas9 system components can be introduced in the plant cells using a plant viral vector Scholthof et al. 1996, Annu Rev Phytopathol. 1996; 34:299-323). In further particular embodiments, said viral vector is a vector from a DNA virus. For example, geminivirus (e.g., cabbage leaf curl virus, bean yellow dwarf virus, wheat dwarf virus, tomato leaf curl virus, maize streak virus, tobacco leaf curl virus, or tomato golden mosaic virus) or nanovirus (e.g., Faba bean necrotic yellow virus). In other particular embodiments, said viral vector is a vector from an RNA virus. For example, tobravirus (e.g., tobacco rattle virus, tobacco mosaic virus), potexvirus (e.g., potato virus X), or hordeivirus barley stripe mosaic virus). The replicating genomes of plant viruses are non-integrative vectors.

In particular embodiments, the vector used for transient expression of CRISPR/Cas9 constructs is for instance a pEAQ vector, which is tailored for Agrobacterium-mediated transient expression (Sainsbury F. et al., Plant Biotechnol J. 2009 September; 7(7):682-93) in the protoplast. Precise targeting of genomic locations was demonstrated using a modified Cabbage Leaf Curl virus (CaLCuV) vector to express gRNAs in stable transgenic plants expressing a (ABM enzyme (Scientific Reports 5, Article number: 14926 (2015), doi:10.1038/srep14926).

In particular embodiments, double-stranded DNA fragments encoding the chi/sgRNA and/or the Cas9 gene can be transiently introduced into the plant cell. In such embodiments, the introduced double-stranded DNA fragments are provided in sufficient quantity to modify the cell but do not persist after a contemplated period of time has passed or after one or more cell divisions. Methods for direct DNA transfer in plants are known by the skilled artisan (see for instance Davey et al. Plant Mol Biol. 1989 September; 13(3):273-85.)

In other embodiments, an RNA polynucleotide encoding the Cas9protein is introduced into the plant cell, which is then translated and processed by the host cell generating the protein in sufficient quantity to modify the cell (in the presence of at least one chi/sgRNA) but which does not persist after a contemplated period of time has passed or after one or more cell divisions. Methods for introducing mRNA to plant protoplasts for transient expression are known by the skilled artisan (see for instance in Gallie, Plant Cell Reports (1993), 13; 119-122). Combinations of the different methods described above are also envisaged.

Delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 Components to the Plant Cell

In particular embodiments, it is of interest to deliver one or more components of the CRISPR/Cas9 system directly to the plant cell. This is of interest, inter alia, for the generation of non-transgenic plants (see below). In particular embodiments, one or more of the Cas9 components is prepared outside the plant or plant cell and delivered to the cell. For instance in particular embodiments, the Cas9 protein is prepared in vitro prior to introduction to the plant cell. Cas9 protein can be prepared by various methods known by one of skill in the art and include recombinant production. After expression, the Cas9 protein is isolated, refolded if needed, purified and optionally treated to remove any purification tags, such as a His-tag. Once crude, partially purified, or more completely purified Cas9 protein is obtained, the protein may be introduced to the plant cell.

In particular embodiments, the Cas9 protein is mixed with chi/sgRNA targeting the gene of interest to form a pre-assembled ribonucleoprotein.

The individual components or pre-assembled ribonucleoprotein can be introduced into the plant cell via electroporation, by bombardment with Cas9-associated gene product coated particles, by chemical transfection or by some other means of transport across a cell membrane. For instance, transfection of a plant protoplast with a pre-assembled CRISPR ribonucleoprotein has been demonstrated to ensure targeted modification of the plant genome (as described by Woo et al, Nature Biotechnology, 2015; DOI: 10.1038/nbt.3389).

In particular embodiments, the CRISPR/Cas9 system components are introduced into the plant cells using nanoparticles. The components, either as protein or nucleic acid or in a combination thereof, can be uploaded onto or packaged in nanoparticles and applied to the plants (such as for instance described in WO 2008042156 and US 20130185823). In particular, embodiments of the invention comprise nanoparticles uploaded with or packed with DNA molecule(s) encoding the Cas9 protein, DNA molecules encoding the chi/sgRNA and/or isolated chi/sgRNA as described in WO2015089419.

Further means of introducing one or more components of the CRISPR/Cas9 system to the plant cell is by using cell penetrating peptides (CPP). Accordingly, in particular, embodiments the invention comprises compositions comprising a cell penetrating peptide linked to the Cas9 protein. In particular embodiments of the present invention, the Cas9 protein and/or chi/sgRNA is coupled to one or more CPPs to effectively transport them inside plant protoplasts (as described by Ramakrishna (2014 Genome Res. 2014 June; 24(6):1020-7 for Cas9 in human cells). In other embodiments, the Cas9 gene and/or chi/sgRNA are encoded by one or more circular or non-circular DNA molecule(s) which are coupled to one or more CPPs for plant protoplast delivery. The plant protoplasts are then regenerated to plant cells and further to plants. CPPs are generally described as short peptides of fewer than 35 amino acids either derived from proteins or from chimeric sequences which are capable of transporting biomolecules across cell membrane in a receptor independent manner. CPP can be cationic peptides, peptides having hydrophobic sequences, amphipatic peptides, peptides having proline-rich and anti-microbial sequence, and chimeric or bipartite peptides (Pooga and Langel 2005). CPPs are able to penetrate biological membranes and as such trigger the movement of various biomolecules across cell membranes into the cytoplasm and to improve their intracellular routing, and hence facilitate interaction of the biomolecule with the target. Examples of CPP include amongst others: Tat, a nuclear transcriptional activator protein required for viral replication by HIV type 1, penetratin, Kaposi fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signal peptide sequence, integrin β3 signal peptide sequence; polyarginine peptide Args sequence, Guanine rich-molecular transporters, sweet arrow peptide, etc. . . .

Use of the CRISPR/Cas9 System to Make Genetically Modified Non-Transgenic Plants

In particular embodiments, the methods described herein are used to modify endogenous genes or to modify their expression without the permanent introduction into the genome of the plant of any foreign gene, including those encoding CRISPR components, so as to avoid the presence of foreign DNA in the genome of the plant. This can be of interest as the regulatory requirements for non-transgenic plants are less rigorous.

In particular embodiments, this is ensured by transient expression of the CRISPR/Cas9 components. In particular embodiments one or more of the CRISPR components are expressed on one or more viral vectors which produce sufficient Cas9 protein and chi/sgRNA to consistently steadily ensure modification of a gene of interest according to a method described herein.

In particular embodiments, transient expression of CRISPR/Cas9 constructs is ensured in plant protoplasts and thus not integrated into the genome. The limited window of expression can be sufficient to allow the CRISPR/Cas9 system to ensure modification of a target gene as described herein.

In particular embodiments, the different components of the CRISPR/Cas9 system are introduced in the plant cell, protoplast or plant tissue either separately or in mixture, with the aid of particulate delivering molecules such as nanoparticles or CPP molecules as described herein above.

The expression of the CRISPR1Cas9 components can induce targeted modification of the genome, either by direct activity of the Cas9 nuclease and optionally introduction of template DNA or by modification of genes targeted using the CRISPR/Cas9 system as described herein. The different strategies described herein above allow Cas9-mediated targeted genome editing without requiring the introduction of the CRISPR/Cas9 components into the plant genome. Components which are transiently introduced into the plant cell are typically removed upon crossing.

Detecting Modifications in the Plant Genome-Selectable Markers

In particular embodiments, where the method involves modification of an endogenous target gene of the plant genome, any suitable method can be used to determine, after the plant, plant part or plant cell is infected or transfected with the CRISPR/Cas9 system, whether gene targeting or targeted mutagenesis has occurred at the target site. Where the method involves introduction of a transgene, a transformed plant cell, callus, tissue or plant may be identified and isolated by selecting or screening the engineered plant material for the presence of the transgene or for traits encoded by the transgene. Physical and biochemical methods may be used to identify plant or plant cell transformants containing inserted gene constructs or an endogenous DNA modification. These methods include but are not limited to: 1) Southern analysis or PCR amplification for detecting and determining the structure of the recombinant DNA insert or modified endogenous genes; 2) Northern blot, S1 RNase protection, primer-extension or reverse transcriptase-PCR amplification for detecting and examining RNA transcripts of the gene constructs; 3) enzymatic assays for detecting enzyme or ribozyme activity, where such gene products are encoded by the gene construct or expression is affected by the genetic modification; 4) protein gel electrophoresis, Western blot techniques, immunoprecipitation, or enzyme-linked immunoassays, where the gene construct or endogenous gene products are proteins. Additional techniques, such as in situ hybridization, enzyme staining, and immunostaining, also may be used to detect the presence or expression of the recombinant construct or detect a modification of endogenous gene in specific plant organs and tissues. The methods for doing all these assays are well known to those skilled in the art.

Additionally (or alternatively), the expression system encoding the CRISPR/Cas9 components is typically designed to comprise one or more selectable or detectable markers that provide a means to isolate or efficiently select cells that contain and/or have been modified by the CRISPR/Cas9 system at an early stage and on a large scale.

In the case of Agrobacterium-mediated transformation, the marker cassette may be adjacent to or between flanking T-DNA borders and contained within a binary vector. In another embodiment, the marker cassette may be outside of the T-DNA. A selectable marker cassette may also be within or adjacent to the same T-DNA borders as the expression cassette or may be somewhere else within a second T-DNA on the binary vector (e.g., a 2 T-DNA system).

For particle bombardment or with protoplast transformation, the expression system can comprise one or more isolated linear fragments or may be part of a larger construct that might contain bacterial replication elements, bacterial selectable markers or other detectable elements. The expression cassette(s) comprising the polynucleotides encoding the guide and/or Cas9 may be physically linked to a marker cassette or may be mixed with a second nucleic acid molecule encoding a marker cassette. The marker cassette is comprised of necessary elements to express a detectable or selectable marker that allows for efficient selection of transformed cells.

The selection procedure for the cells based on the selectable marker will depend on the nature of the marker gene. In particular embodiments, use is made of a selectable marker, i.e. a marker which allows a direct selection of the cells based on the expression of the marker. A selectable marker can confer positive or negative selection and is conditional or non-conditional on the presence of external substrates (Miki et al. 2004, 107(3): 193-232). Most commonly, antibiotic or herbicide resistance genes are used as a marker, whereby selection is be performed by growing the engineered plant material on media containing an inhibitory amount of the antibiotic or herbicide to which the marker gene confers resistance. Examples of such genes are genes that confer resistance to antibiotics, such as hygromycin (hpt) and kanamycin (nptII), and genes that confer resistance to herbicides, such as phosphinothricin (bar) and chlorosulfuron (als),

Transformed plants and plant cells may also be identified by screening for the activities of a visible marker, typically an enzyme capable of processing a colored substrate (e.g., the β-glucuronidase, luciferase, B or C1 genes). Such selection and screening methodologies are well known to those skilled in the art.

Plant Cultures and Regeneration

In particular embodiments, plant cells which have a modified genome and that are produced or obtained by any of the methods described herein, can be cultured to regenerate a whole plant which possesses the transformed or modified genotype and thus the desired phenotype. Conventional regeneration techniques are well known to those skilled in the art. Particular examples of such regeneration techniques rely on manipulation of certain phytohormones in a tissue culture growth medium, and typically relying on a biocide and/or herbicide marker which has been introduced together with the desired nucleotide sequences. In further particular embodiments, plant regeneration is obtained from cultured protoplasts, plant callus, explants, organs, pollens, embryos or parts thereof (see e.g. Evans et al. (1983), Handbook of Plant Cell Culture, Klee et al (1987) Ann. Rev. of Plant Phys.).

In particular embodiments, transformed or improved plants as described herein can be self-pollinated to provide seed for homozygous improved plants of the invention (homozygous for the DNA modification) or crossed with non-transgenic plants or different improved plants to provide seed for heterozygous plants. Where a recombinant DNA was introduced into the plant cell, the resulting plant of such a crossing is a plant which is heterozygous for the recombinant DNA molecule, Both such homozygous and heterozygous plants obtained by crossing from the improved plants and comprising the genetic modification (which can be a recombinant DNA) are referred to herein as “progeny”. Progeny plants are plants descended from the original transgenic plant and containing the genome modification or recombinant DNA molecule introduced by the methods provided herein. Alternatively, genetically modified plants can be obtained by one of the methods described supra using the Cas9 whereby no foreign DNA is incorporated into the genome. Progeny of such plants, obtained by further breeding may also contain the genetic modification. Breedings are performed by any breeding methods that are commonly used for different crops (e.g., Allard, Principles of Plant Breeding, John Wiley & Sons, NY, U. of CA, Davis, Calif., 50-98 (1960).

Generation of Plants with Enhanced Agronomic Traits

The Cas9 based CRISPR systems provided herein can be used to introduce targeted double-strand or single-strand breaks and/or to introduce gene activator and or repressor systems and without being limitative, can be used for gene targeting, gene replacement, targeted mutagenesis, targeted deletions or insertions, targeted inversions and/or targeted translocations. By co-expression of multiple targeting RNAs directed to achieve multiple modifications in a single cell, multiplexed genome modification can be ensured. This technology can be used to high-precision engineering of plants with improved characteristics, including enhanced nutritional quality, increased resistance to diseases and resistance to biotic and abiotic stress, and increased production of commercially valuable plant products or heterologous compounds.

In particular embodiments, the CRISPR/Cas9 system as described herein is used to introduce targeted double-strand breaks (DSB) in an endogenous DNA sequence. The DSB activates cellular DNA repair pathways, which can be harnessed to achieve desired DNA sequence modifications near the break site. This is of interest where the inactivation of endogenous genes can confer or contribute to a desired trait. In particular embodiments, homologous recombination with a template sequence is promoted at the site of the DSB, in order to introduce a gene of interest.

In particular embodiments, the CRISPR/Cas9 system may be used as a generic nucleic acid binding protein with fusion to or being operably linked to a functional domain for activation and/or repression of endogenous plant genes. Exemplary functional domains may include but are not limited to translational initiator, translational activator, translational repressor, nucleases, in particular ribonucleases, a spliceosome, beads, a light inducible/controllable domain or a chemically inducible/controllable domain. Typically in these embodiments, the Cas9 protein comprises at least one mutation, such that it has no more than 5% of the activity of the Cas9 protein not having the at least one mutation; the chi/sgRNA comprises a guide sequence capable of hybridizing to a target sequence.

The methods described herein generally result in the generation of “improved plants” in that they have one or more desirable traits compared to the wild-type plant. In particular embodiments, the plants, plant cells or plant parts obtained are transgenic plants, comprising an exogenous DNA sequence incorporated into the genome of all or part of the cells of the plant. In particular embodiments, non-transgenic genetically modified plants, plant parts or cells are obtained, in that no exogenous DNA sequence is incorporated into the genome of any of the plant cells of the plant. In such embodiments, the improved plants are non-transgenic. Where only the modification of an endogenous gene is ensured and no foreign genes are introduced or maintained in the plant genome, the resulting genetically modified crops contain no foreign genes and can thus basically be considered non-transgenic. The different applications of the CRISPR/Cas9 system for plant genome editing are described more in detail below:

a) Introduction of One or More Foreign Genes to Confer an Agricultural Trait of Interest

The invention provides methods of genome editing or modifying sequences associated with or at a target locus of interest wherein the method comprises introducing a Cas9 effector protein complex into a plant cell, whereby the Cas9 effector protein complex effectively functions to integrate a DNA insert, e.g. encoding a foreign gene of interest, into the genome of the plant cell. In preferred embodiments the integration of the DNA insert is facilitated by HR with an exogenously introduced DNA template or repair template. Typically, the exogenously introduced DNA template or repair template is delivered together with the Cas9 effector protein complex or one component or a polynucleotide vector for expression of a component of the complex.

The CRISPR/Cas9 systems provided herein allow for targeted gene delivery. It has become increasingly clear that the efficiency of expressing a gene of interest is to a great extent determined by the location of integration into the genome. The present methods allow for targeted integration of the foreign gene into a desired location in the genome. The location can be selected based on information of previously generated events or can be selected by methods disclosed elsewhere herein.

In particular embodiments, the methods provided herein include (a) introducing into the cell a CRISPR/Cas9 complex comprising a chi/sgRNA, comprising a direct repeat and a guide sequence, wherein the guide sequence hybridizes to a target sequence that is endogenous to the plant cell; (b) introducing into the plant cell a Cas9 effector molecule which complexes with the chi/sgRNA when the guide sequence hybridizes to the target sequence and induces a double strand break at or near the sequence to which the guide sequence is targeted; and (c) introducing into the cell a nucleotide sequence encoding an HDR repair template which encodes the gene of interest and which is introduced into the location of the DS break as a result of HDR. In particular embodiments, the step of introducing can include delivering to the plant cell one or more polynucleotides encoding Cas9 effector protein, the chi/sgRNA and the repair template. In particular embodiments, the polynucleotides are delivered into the cell by a DNA virus (e.g., a geminivirus) or an RNA virus (e.g., a tobravirus). In particular embodiments, the introducing steps include delivering to the plant cell a T-DNA containing one or more polynucleotide sequences encoding the Cas9 effector protein, the chi/sgRNA and the repair template, where the delivering is via Agrobacterium. The nucleic acid sequence encoding the Cas9 effector protein can be operably linked to a promoter, such as a constitutive promoter (e.g., a cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter), or a cell specific or inducible promoter. In particular embodiments, the polynucleotide is introduced by microprojectile bombardment. In particular embodiments, the method further includes screening the plant cell after the introducing steps to determine whether the repair template i.e. the gene of interest has been introduced. In particular embodiments, the methods include the step of regenerating a plant from the plant cell. In further embodiments, the methods include cross breeding the plant to obtain a genetically desired plant lineage. Examples of foreign genes encoding a trait of interest are listed below.

b) Editing of Endogenous Genes to Confer an Agricultural Trait of Interest

The invention provides methods of genome editing or modifying sequences associated with or at a target locus of interest wherein the method comprises introducing a Cas9 effector protein complex into a plant cell, whereby the Cas9 complex modifies the expression of an endogenous gene of the plant. This can be achieved in different ways, In particular embodiments, the elimination of expression of an endogenous gene is desirable and the CRISPR/Cas9 complex is used to target and cleave an endogenous gene so as to modify gene expression. In these embodiments, the methods provided herein include (a) introducing into the plant cell a CRISPR/Cas9 complex comprising a chi/sgRNA, comprising a direct repeat and a guide sequence, wherein the guide sequence hybridizes to a target sequence within a gene of interest in the genome of the plant cell; and (b) introducing into the cell a Cas9 effector protein, which upon binding to the chi/sgRNA comprises a guide sequence that is hybridized to the target sequence, ensures a double strand break at or near the sequence to which the guide sequence is targeted; In particular embodiments, the step of introducing can include delivering to the plant cell one or more polynucleotides encoding Cas9 effector protein and the chi/sgRNA.

In particular embodiments, the polynucleotides are delivered into the cell by a DNA virus (e.g., a geminivirus) or an RNA virus (e.g., a tobravirus). In particular embodiments, the introducing steps include delivering to the plant cell a T-DNA containing one or more polynucleotide sequences encoding the Cas9 effector protein and the chi/sgRNA, where the delivering is via Agrobacterium. The polynucleotide sequence encoding the components of the CRISPR/Cas9 system can be operably linked to a promoter, such as a constitutive promoter (e.g., a cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter), or a cell specific or inducible promoter. In particular embodiments, the polynucleotide is introduced by microprojectile bombardment. In particular embodiments, the method further includes screening the plant cell after the introducing steps to determine whether the expression of the gene of interest has been modified. In particular embodiments, the methods include the step of regenerating a plant from the plant cell. In further embodiments, the methods include cross breeding the plant to obtain a genetically desired plant lineage.

In particular embodiments of the methods described above, disease resistant crops are obtained by targeted mutation of disease susceptibility genes or genes encoding negative regulators (e.g. Mlo gene) of plant defense genes. In a particular embodiment, herbicide-tolerant crops are generated by targeted substitution of specific nucleotides in plant genes such as those encoding acetolactate synthase (ALS) and protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO). In particular embodiments drought and salt tolerant crops by targeted mutation of genes encoding negative regulators of abiotic stress tolerance, low amylose grains by targeted mutation of Waxy gene, rice or other grains with reduced rancidity by targeted mutation of major lipase genes in aleurone layer, etc. In particular embodiments. A more extensive list of endogenous genes encoding a traits of interest are listed below.

c) Modulating of Endogenous Genes by the CRISPR/Cas9 System to Confer an Agricultural Trait of Interest

Also provided herein are methods for modulating (i.e. activating or repressing) endogenous gene expression using the Cas9 protein provided herein. Such methods make use of distinct RNA sequence(s) which are targeted to the plant genome by the Cas9 complex. More particularly the distinct RNA sequence(s) bind to two or more adaptor proteins (e.g. aptamers) whereby each adaptor protein is associated with one or more functional domains and wherein at least one of the one or more functional domains associated with the adaptor protein have one or more activities comprising methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, DNA integration activity RNA cleavage activity, DNA cleavage activity or nucleic acid binding activity; The functional domains are used to modulate expression of an endogenous plant gene so as to obtain the desired trait. Typically, in these embodiments, the Cas9 effector protein has one or more mutations such that it has no more than 5% of the nuclease activity of the Cas9 effector protein not having the at least one mutation.

In particular embodiments, the methods provided herein include the steps of (a) introducing into the cell a CRISPR/Cas9 complex comprising a chi/sgRNA, comprising a direct repeat and a guide sequence, wherein the guide sequence hybridizes to a target sequence that is endogenous to the plant cell; (b) introducing into the plant cell a Cas9 effector molecule which complexes with the chi/sgRNA when the guide sequence hybridizes to the target sequence; and wherein either the chi/sgRNA is modified to comprise a distinct RNA sequence (aptamer) binding to a functional domain and/or the Cas9 effector protein is modified in that it is linked to a functional domain. In particular embodiments, the step of introducing can include delivering to the plant cell one or more polynucleotides encoding the (modified) Cas9 effector protein and the (modified) chi/sgRNA. The details the components of the CRISPR/Cas9 system for use in these methods are described elsewhere herein.

In particular embodiments, the polynucleotides are delivered into the cell by a DNA virus (e.g., a geminivirus) or an RNA virus (e.g., a tobravirus). In particular embodiments, the introducing steps include delivering to the plant cell a T-DNA containing one or more polynucleotide sequences encoding the Cas9 effector protein and the chi/sgRNA, where the delivering is via Agrobacterium. The nucleic acid sequence encoding the one or more components of the CRISPR/Cas9 system can be operably linked to a promoter, such as a constitutive promoter (e.g., a cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter), or a cell specific or inducible promoter. In particular embodiments, the polynucleotide is introduced by microprojectile bombardment. In particular embodiments, the method further includes screening the plant cell after the introducing steps to determine whether the expression of the gene of interest has been modified. In particular embodiments, the methods include the step of regenerating a plant from the plant cell. In further embodiments, the methods include cross breeding the plant to obtain a genetically desired plant lineage. A more extensive list of endogenous genes encoding a trait of interest are listed below.

Use of Cas9 to Modify Polyploid Plants

Many plants are polyploid, which means they carry duplicate copies of their genomes—sometimes as many as six, as in wheat. The methods according to the present invention, which make use of the CRISPR/Cas9 effector protein can be “multiplexed” to affect all copies of a gene, or to target dozens of genes at once. For instance, in particular embodiments, the methods of the present invention are used to simultaneously ensure a loss of function mutation in different genes responsible for suppressing defenses against a disease. In particular embodiments, the methods of the present invention are used to simultaneously suppress the expression of the TaMLO-Al, TaMLO-Bl and TaMLO-Dl nucleic acid sequence in a wheat plant cell and regenerating a wheat plant therefrom, in order to ensure that the wheat plant is resistant to powdery mildew (see also WO2015109752).

Exemplary Genes Conferring Agronomic Traits

As described herein above, in particular embodiments, the invention encompasses the use of the CRISPR/Cas9 system as described herein for the insertion of a DNA of interest, including one or more plant expressible gene(s). In further particular embodiments, the invention encompasses methods and tools using the Cas9 system as described herein for partial or complete deletion of one or more plant expressed gene(s). In other further particular embodiments, the invention encompasses methods and tools using the Cas9 system as described herein to ensure modification of one or more plant-expressed genes by mutation, substitution, insertion of one of more nucleotides. In other particular embodiments, the invention encompasses the use of CRISPR/Cas9 system as described herein to ensure modification of expression of one or more plant-expressed genes by specific modification of one or more of the regulatory elements directing expression of said genes.

In particular embodiments, the invention encompasses methods which involve the introduction of exogenous genes and/or the targeting of endogenous genes and their regulatory elements, such as listed below:

1. Genes that Confer Resistance to Pests or Diseases

-   -   Plant disease resistance genes. A plant can be transformed with         cloned resistance genes to engineer plants that are resistant to         specific pathogen strains. See, e.g., Jones of al., Science         266:789 (1994) (cloning of the tomato Cf-9 gene for resistance         to Cladosporium fulvum); Martin et al., Science 262:1432 (1993)         (tomato Pto gene for resistance to Pseudomonas syringae pv.         tomato encodes a protein kinase); Mindrinos et al., Cell         78:1089 (1994) (Arabidops may be RSP2 gene for resistance to         Pseudomonas syringae).     -   Genes conferring resistance to a pest, such as soybean cyst         nematode. See e.g., PCT Application WO 96/30517; PCT Application         WO 93/19181.     -   Bacillus thuringiensis proteins see, e.g., Geiser et al., Gene         48:109 (1986).     -   Lectins, see, for example, Van Damme et al., Plant Molec. Biol.         24:25 (1994.     -   Vitamin-binding protein, such as avidin, see PCT application         US93/06487, teaching the use of avidin and avidin homologues as         larvicides against insect pests.     -   Enzyme inhibitors such as protease or proteinase inhibitors or         amylase inhibitors. See, e.g., Abe et al., J. Biol, Chem.         262:16793 (1987), Huub et al., Plant Molec. Biol. 21:985         (1993)), Sumitani et al., Biosci. Biotech. Biochem.         57:1243 (1993) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,494,811     -   Insect-specific hormones or pheromones such as ecdysteroid or         juvenile hormone, a variant thereof, a mimetic based thereon, or         an antagonist or agonist thereof. See, for example Hammock et         al., Nature 344:458 (1990).     -   Insect-specific peptides or neuropeptides which, upon         expression, disrupts the physiology of the affected pest. For         example Regan, J. Biol. Chem. 269:9 (1994) and Pratt et al.,         Biochem. Biophys. Res. Comm. 163:1243 (1989). See also U.S. Pat.         No. 5,266,317.     -   Insect-specific venom produced in nature by a snake, a wasp, or         any other organism. For example, see Pang et al., Gene 116: 165         (1992).     -   Enzymes responsible for a hyperaccumulation of a monoterpene, a         sesquiterpene, a steroid, hydroxamic acid, a phenylpropanoid         derivative or another nonprotein molecule with insecticidal         activity.     -   Enzymes involved in the modification, including the         post-translational modification, of a biologically active         molecule; for example, a glycolytic enzyme, a proteolytic         enzyme, a lipolytic enzyme, a nuclease, a cyclase, a         transaminase, an esterase, a hydrolase, a phosphatase, a kinase,         a phosphorylase, a polymerase, an elastase, a chitinase and a         glucanase, whether natural or synthetic. See PCT application         WO93/02197, Kramer et al., Insect Biochem. Molec. Biol.         23:691 (1993) and Kawalleck et al., Plant Molec. Bio). 21:673         (1993).     -   Molecules that stimulates signal transduction. For example, see         Botella et al., Plant Molec. Biol. 24:757 (1994), and Griess et         al., Plant Physiol. 104:1467 (1994).     -   Viral-invasive proteins or a complex toxin derived therefrom.         See Beachy et al., Ann. rev. Phytopathol 28:451 (1990).     -   Developmental-arrestive proteins produced in nature by a         pathogen or a parasite. See Lamb et al., Bio/Technology         10:1436 (1992) and Toubart et al., Plant J. 2:367 (1992).     -   A developmental-arrestive protein produced in nature by a plant.         For example, Logemann et al., Bio/Technology 10:305 (1992).     -   In plants, pathogens are often host-specific. For example, some         Fusarium species will causes tomato wilt but attacks only         tomato, and other Fusarium species attack only wheat. Plants         have existing and induced defenses to resist most pathogens.         Mutations and recombination events across plant generations lead         to genetic variability that gives rise to susceptibility,         especially as pathogens reproduce with more frequency than         plants. In plants there can be non-host resistance, e.g., the         host and pathogen are incompatible or there can be partial         resistance against all races of a pathogen, typically controlled         by many genes and/or also complete resistance to some races of a         pathogen but not to other races. Such resistance is typically         controlled by a few genes. Using methods and components of the         CRISP-Cas9 system, a new tool now exists to induce specific         mutations in anticipation hereon. Accordingly, one can analyze         the genome of sources of resistance genes, and in plants having         desired characteristics or traits, use the method and components         of the CRISPR/Cas9 system to induce the rise of resistance         genes. The present systems can do so with more precision than         previous mutagenic agents and hence accelerate and improve plant         breeding programs.

2. Genes Involved in Plant Diseases, Such as Those Listed in WO 2013046247

-   -   Rice diseases: Magnaporthe grisea, Cochliobolus miyabeanus,         Rhizoctonia solani, Gibberella fujikuroi; Wheat diseases:         Erysiphe graminis, Fusarium graminearum, F. avenaceum, F.         culmorum, Microdochium nivale, Puccinia striiformis, P.         graminis, P. recondita, Micronectriella nivale, Typhula sp.,         Ustilago tritici, Tilletia caries, Pseudocercosporella         herpotrichoides, Mycosphaerella graminicola., Stagonospora         nodorum, Pyrenophora tritici-repentis; Barley diseases: Erysiphe         graminis, Fusarium graminearum, F. avenaceum, F. culmorum,         Microdochium nivale, Puccinia striiformis, P. graminis, P.         hordei, Ustilago nuda, Rhynchosporium secalis, Pyrenophora         teres, Cochliobolus sativus, Pyrenophora graminea, Rhizoctonia         solani; Maize diseases: Ustilago maydis, Cochliobolus         heterostrophus; Gloeocercospora sorghi; Puccinia polysora,         Cercospora zeae-maydis, Rhizoctonia solani;     -   Citrus diseases: Diaporthe citri, Elsinoc fawcetti, Penicillium         digitatum, P. italicum, Phytophthora parasitica, Phytophthora         citrophthora; Apple diseases: Monilinia mali, Valsa         ceratosperma, Podosphaera leucotricha, Alternaria alternata         apple pathotype, Venturia inaequalis, Colletotrichum acutatum,         Phytophtora cactorum;     -   Pear diseases: Venturia nashicola, V. pirina, Alternaria         alternata Japanese pear pathotype, Gymnosporangium haraeanum,         Phytophtora cactorum;     -   Peach diseases: Monilinia fructicola, Cladosporium carpophilum,         Phomopsis sp.;     -   Grape diseases: Elsinoe ampelina, Glomerella cingulata, Uninula         necator, Phakopsora ampelopsidis, Guignardia bidwellii,         Plasmopara viticola;     -   Persimmon diseases: Gloesporium kaki, Cercospora kaki,         Mycosphaerela nawae;     -   Gourd diseases: Colletotrichum lagenarium, Sphaerotheca         fuliginea, Mycosphaerella melonis, Fusarium oxysporum,         Pseudoperonospora cubensis. Phytophthora sp., Pythium sp.;     -   Tomato diseases: Alternaria solani, Cladosporium fulvum,         Phytophthora infestans;     -   Eggplant diseases: Phomopsis vexans, Erysiphe cichoracearum;         Brassicaceous vegetable diseases: Alternaria japonica,         Cercosporella brassicae, Plasmodiophora brassicae, Peronospora         parasitica;     -   Welsh onion diseases: Puccinia allii, Peronospora destructor;     -   Soybean diseases: Cercospora kikuchii, Elsinoe glycines,         Diaporthe phaseolorum var. sojae, Septoria glycines, Cercospora         sojina, Phakopsora pachyrhizi, Phytophthora sojae, Rhizoctonia         solani, Corynespora casiicola, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum;     -   Kidney bean diseases: Colletrichum lindemthianum;     -   Peanut diseases: Cercospora personata, Cercospora arachidicola,         Sclerotium rolfsii;     -   Pea diseases pea: Erysiphe pisi;     -   Potato diseases: Alternaria solani, Phytophthora infestans,         Phytophthora erythroseptica, Spongospora subterranean, f. sp.         Subterranean;     -   Strawberry diseases: Sphaerotheca humuli, Glomerella cingulata;     -   Tea diseases: Exobasidium reticulatum, Elsinoe leucospila,         Pestalotiopsis sp., Colletotrichum theae-sinensis;     -   Tobacco diseases: Alternaria longipes, Erysiphe cichoracearum,         Colletotrichum tabacum, Peronospora tabacina, Phytophthora         nicotianae;     -   Rapeseed diseases: Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Rhizoctonia solani;     -   Cotton diseases: Rhizoctonia solani;     -   Beet diseases: Cercospora beticola, Thanatephorus cucumeris,         Thanatephorus cucumeris, Aphanomyces cochlioides;     -   Rose diseases: Diplocarpon rosae, Sphaerotheca pannosa,         Peronospora sparsa;     -   Diseases of chrysanthemum and asteraceae: Bremia lactuca,         Septoria chrysanthemi-indici, Puccinia horiana;     -   Diseases of various plants: Pythium aphanidermatum, Pythium         debarianum, Pythium graminicola, Pythium irregulare, Pythium         ultimum, Botrytis cinerea, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum;     -   Radish diseases: Alternaria brassicicola;     -   Zoysia diseases: Sclerotinia homeocarpa, Rhizoctonia solani;     -   Banana diseases: Mycosphaerella fijiensis, Mycosphaerella         musicola;     -   Sunflower diseases: Plasmopara halstedii;     -   Seed diseases or diseases in the initial stage of growth of         various plants caused by Aspergillus spp., Penicillium spp.,         Fusarium spp., Gibberella spp., Trichoderma spp., Thielaviopsis         spp., Rhizopus spp., Mucor spp., Corticium spp., Rhoma spp.,         Rhizoctonia spp., Diplodia spp., or the like;     -   Virus diseases of various plants mediated by Polymixa spp.,         Olpidium spp., or the like.

3. Examples of Genes that Confer Resistance to Herbicides

-   -   Resistance to herbicides that inhibit the growing point or         meristem, such as an imidazolinone or a sulfonylurea, for         example, by Lee et al., EMBO J. 7:1241 (1988), and Miki et al.,         Theor. Appl. Genet. 80:449 (1990), respectively.     -   Glyphosate tolerance (resistance conferred by, e.g., mutant         5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPs) genes, aroA         genes and glyphosate acetyl transferase (GAT) genes,         respectively), or resistance to other phosphono compounds such         as by glufosinate (phosphinothricin acetyl transferase (PAT)         genes from Streptomyces species, including Streptomyces         hygroscopicus and Streptomyces viridichromogenes), and to         pyridinoxy or phenoxy proprionic acids and cyclohexones by         ACCase inhibitor-encoding genes. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No.         4; 940,835 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,248,876, U.S. Pat. No. 4,769,061,         EP No. 0 333 033 and U.S. Pat. No. 4,975,374. See also EP No.         0242246, DeGreef et al., Bio/Technology 7:61 (1989), Marshall et         al., Theor. Appl. Genet. 83:435 (1992), WO 2005012515 to Castle         et. al. and WO 2005107437.     -   Resistance to herbicides that inhibit photosynthesis, such as a         triazine (psbA and gs+ genes) or a benzonitrile (nitrilase         gene), and glutathione S-transferase in Przibila et al., Plant         Cell 3:169 (1991), U.S. Pat. No. 4,810,648, and Hayes et al.,         Biochem. J, 285: 173 (1992).     -   Genes encoding Enzymes detoxifying the herbicide or a mutant         glutamine synthase enzyme that is resistant to inhibition, e.g.         n U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/760,602. Or a detoxifying         enzyme is an enzyme encoding a phosphinothricin         acetyltransferase (such as the bar or pat protein from         Streptomyces species). Phosphinothricin acetyltransferases are         for example described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,561,236; 5,648,477; 5;         646; 024; 5,273,894; 5,637,489; 5,276,268; 5,739,082; 5,908,810         and 7,112,665.     -   Hydroxyphenylpyruvatedioxygenases (HPPD) inhibitors, ie         naturally occuring HPPD resistant enzymes, or genes encoding a         mutated or chimeric HPPD enzyme as described in WO 96/38567, WO         99/24:585, and WO 99/24586, WO 2009/144079, WO 2002/046387, or         U.S. Pat. No. 6,768,044.

4. Examples of Genes Involved in Abiotic Stress Tolerance

-   -   Transgene capable of reducing the expression and/or the activity         of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) gene in the plant cells or         plants as described in WO 00/04173 or, WO/2006/045633.     -   Transgenes capable of reducing the expression and/or the         activity of the PARG encoding genes of the plants or plants         cells, as described e.g. in WO 2004/090140.     -   Transgenes coding for a plant-functional enzyme of the         nicotineamide adenine dinucleotide salvage synthesis pathway         including nicotinamidase, nicotinate phosphoribosyltransferase,         nicotinic acid mononucleotide adenyl transferase, nicotinamide         adenine dinucleotide synthetase or nicotine amide         phosphoryhosyltransferase as described e.g. in EP 04077624,7, WO         2006/133827, PACT/EP07/002,433, EP 1999263, or WO 2007/107326.     -   Enzymes involved in carbohydrate biosynthesis include those         described in e.g. EP 0571427, WO 95/04826, EP 0719338, WO         96/15248, WO 96/19581, WO 96/27674, WO 97/11188, WO 97/26362, WO         97/32985, WO 97/42328, WO 97/44472, WO 97/45545, WO 98/27212, WO         98/40503, WO99/58688, WO 99/58690, WO 99/58654, WO 00/08184, WO         00/08185, WO 00/08175, WO 00/28052, WO 00/77229, WO 01/12782, WO         01/12826, WO 02/101059, WO 03/071860, WO 2.004/056999, WO         2005/030942, WO 2005/030941, WO 2005/095632, WO 2005/095617, WO         2005/095619, WO 2005/095618, WO 2005/123927, WO 2006/018319, WO         2006/103107, WO 2006/108702, WO 2007/009823, WO 00/22140, WO         2006/063862, WO 2006/072603, WO 02/034923, EP 06090134.5, EP         06090228.5, EP 06090227.7, EP 07090007.1, EP 07090009.7, WO         01/14569, WO 02/79410, WO 03/33540, WO 2004/078983, WO 01/19975,         WO 95/26407, WO 96/34968, WO 98/20145, WO 99/12950, WO 99/66050,         WO 99/53072, U.S. Pat. No. 6,734,341, WO 00/11192, WO 98/22604,         WO 98/32326, WO 01/98509, WO 01/98509, WO 2005/002359, U.S. Pat.         No. 5,824,790, U.S. Pat. No. 6,013,861, WO 94/04693, WO         94/09144, WO 94/11520, WO 95/3502.6 or WO 97/20936 or enzymes         involved in the production of polyfructose, especially of the         inulin and levan-type, as disclosed in EP 0663956, WO 96/01904,         WO 96/21023, WO 98/39460, and WO 99/24593, the production of         alpha-1,4-glucans as disclosed in WO 95/31553, US 2002031826,         U.S. Pat. No. 6,284,479, U.S. Pat. No. 5,712,107, WO 97/47806,         WO 97/47807, WO 97/47808 and WO 00/14249, the production of         alpha-1,6 branched alpha-1,4-glucans, as disclosed in WO         00/73422, the production of alternan, as disclosed in e.g. WO         00/47727, WO 00/73422, EP 06077301.7, U.S. Pat. No. 5,908,975         and EP 0728213, the production of hyaluronan, as for example         disclosed in WO 2006/032538, WO 2007/039314, WO 2007/039315, WO         2007/039316, JP 2006304779, and WO 2005/012529.     -   Genes that improve drought resistance. For example, WO         2013122472 discloses that the absence or reduced level of         functional Ubiquitin Protein Ligase protein (UPL) protein, more         specifically, UPL3, leads to a decreased need for water or         improved resistance to drought of said plant. Other examples of         transgenic plants with increased drought tolerance are disclosed         in, for example, US 2009/0144850, US 2007/0266453, and WO         2002/083911. US2009/0144850 describes a plant displaying a         drought tolerance phenotype due to altered expression of a DR02         nucleic acid. US 2007/0266453 describes a plant displaying a         drought tolerance phenotype due to altered expression of a DR03         nucleic acid and WO 2002/08391 1 describes a plant having an         increased tolerance to drought stress due to a reduced activity         of an ABC transporter which is expressed in guard cells. Another         example is the work by Kasuga and co-authors (1999), who         describe that overexpression of cDNA encoding DREB1 A in         transgenic plants activated the expression of many stress         tolerance genes under normal growing conditions and resulted in         improved tolerance to drought, salt loading, and freezing.         However, the expression of DREB1A also resulted in severe growth         retardation under normal growing conditions (Kasuga (1999) Nat         Biotechnol 17(3) 287-291).

In further particular embodiments, crop plants can be improved by influencing specific plant traits. For example, by developing pesticide-resistant plants, improving disease resistance in plants, improving plant insect and nematode resistance, improving plant resistance against parasitic weeds, improving plant drought tolerance, improving plant nutritional value, improving plant stress tolerance, avoiding self-pollination, plant forage digestibility biomass, grain yield etc. A few specific non-limiting examples are provided herein below.

In addition to targeted mutation of single genes, Cas9CRISPR complexes can be designed to allow targeted mutation of multiple genes, deletion of chromosomal fragment, site-specific integration of transgene, site-directed mutagenesis in vivo, and precise gene replacement or allele swapping in plants. Therefore, the methods described herein have broad applications in gene discovery and validation, mutational and cisgenic breeding, and hybrid breeding. These applications facilitate the production of a new generation of genetically modified crops with various improved agronomic traits such as herbicide resistance, disease resistance, abiotic stress tolerance, high yield, and superior quality.

Use of Cas9 Gene to Create Male Sterile Plants

Hybrid plants typically have advantageous agronomic traits compared to inbred plants. However, for self-pollinating plants, the generation of hybrids can be challenging. In different plant types, genes have been identified which are important for plant fertility, more particularly male fertility. For instance, in maize, at least two genes have been identified which are important in fertility (Amitabh Mohanty International Conference on New Plant Breeding Molecular Technologies Technology Development And Regulation, Oct. 9-10, 2014, Jaipur, India; Svitashev et al. Plant Physiol. 2015 October; 0.169(4931-45; Djukanovic et al. Plant J. 2013 December: 76(5):888-99). The methods provided herein can be used to target genes required for male fertility so as to generate male sterile plants which can easily be crossed to generate hybrids. In particular embodiments, the CRISPR/Cas9 system provided herein is used for targeted mutagenesis of the cytochrome P450-like gene (MS26) or the meganuclease gene (MS45) thereby conferring male sterility to the maize plant. Maize plants which are as such genetically, altered can be used in hybrid breeding programs.

Increasing the Fertility Stage in Plants

In particular embodiments, the methods provided herein are used to prolong the fertility stage of a plant such as of a rice plant. For instance, a rice fertility stage gene such as Ehd3 can be targeted in order to generate a mutation in the gene and plantlets can be selected for a prolonged regeneration plant fertility stage (as described in CN 104004782)

Use of Cas9 to Generate Genetic Variation in a Crop of Interest

The availability of wild germplasm and genetic variations in crop plants is the key to crop improvement programs, but the available diversity in germplasms from crop plants is limited. The present invention envisages methods for generating a diversity of genetic variations in a germplasm of interest. In this application of the CRISPR/Cas9 system a library of chi/sgRNAs targeting different locations in the plant genome is provided and is introduced into plant cells together with the Cas9 effector protein. In this way a collection of genome-scale point mutations and gene knock-outs can be generated. In particular embodiments, the methods comprise generating a plant part or plant from the cells so obtained and screening the cells for a trait of interest. The target genes can include both coding and non-coding regions. In particular embodiments, the trait is stress tolerance and the method is a method for the generation of stress-tolerant crop varieties

Use of Cas9 to Affect Fruit-Ripening

Ripening is a normal phase in the maturation process of fruits and vegetables. Only a few days after it starts it renders a fruit or vegetable inedible. This process brings significant losses to both farmers and consumers. In particular embodiments, the methods of the present invention are used to reduce ethylene production. This is ensured by ensuring one or more of the following: a. Suppression of ACC synthase gene expression. ACC (1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid) synthase is the enzyme responsible for the conversion of S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) to ACC; the second to the last step in ethylene biosynthesis, Enzyme expression is hindered when an antisense (“mirror-image”) or truncated copy of the synthase gene is inserted into the plant's genome; b. Insertion of the ACC deaminase gene. The gene coding for the enzyme is obtained from Pseudomonas chlororaphis, a common nonpathogenic soil bacterium. It converts ACC to a different compound thereby reducing the amount of ACC available for ethylene production: c. Insertion of the SAM hydrolase gene. This approach is similar to ACC deaminase wherein ethylene production is hindered when the amount of its precursor metabolite is reduced; in this case SAM is converted to homoserine. The gene coding for the enzyme is obtained from E. coli T3 bacteriophage and d. Suppression of ACC oxidase gene expression. ACC oxidase is the enzyme which catalyzes the oxidation of ACC to ethylene, the last step in the ethylene biosynthetic pathway. Using the methods described herein, down regulation of the ACC oxidase gene results in the suppression of ethylene production, thereby delaying fruit ripening. In particular embodiments, additionally or alternatively to the modifications described above, the methods described herein are used to modify ethylene receptors, so as to interfere with ethylene signals obtained by the fruit. In particular embodiments, expression of the ETR1 gene, encoding an ethylene binding protein is modified, more particularly suppressed. In particular embodiments, additionally or alternatively to the modifications described above, the methods described herein are used to modify expression of the gene encoding Polygalacturonase (PG), which is the enzyme responsible for the breakdown of pectin, the substance that maintains the integrity of plant cell walls. Pectin breakdown occurs at the start of the ripening process resulting in the softening of the fruit. Accordingly, in particular embodiments, the methods described herein are used to introduce a mutation in the PG gene or to suppress activation of the PG gene in order to reduce the amount of PG enzyme produced thereby delaying pectin degradation.

Thus in particular embodiments, the methods comprise the use of the CRISPR/Cas9 system to ensure one or more modifications of the genome of a plant cell such as described above, and regenerating a plant therefrom. In particular embodiments, the plant is a tomato plant.

Increasing Storage Life of Plants

In particular embodiments, the methods of the present invention are used to modify genes involved in the production of compounds which affect storage life of the plant or plant part. More particularly, the modification is in a gene that prevents the accumulation of reducing sugars in potato tubers. Upon high-temperature processing, these reducing sugars react with free amino acids, resulting in brown, bitter-tasting products and elevated levels of acrylamide, which is a potential carcinogen. In particular embodiments, the methods provided herein are used to reduce or inhibit expression of the vacuolar invertase gene (VInv), which encodes a protein that breaks down sucrose to glucose: and fructose (Clasen et al. DOI: 10.1111/pbi.12370).

The Use of the CRISPR/Cas9 System to Ensure a Value Added Trait

In particular embodiments the CRISPR/Cas9 system is used to produce nutritionally, improved agricultural crops. In particular embodiments, the methods provided herein are adapted to generate “functional foods”, i.e. a modified food or food ingredient that may provide a health benefit beyond the traditional nutrients it contains and or “nutraceutical”, i.e. substances that may be considered a food or part of a food and provides health benefits, including the prevention and treatment of disease. In particular embodiments, the nutraceutical is useful in the prevention and/or treatment of one or more of cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension.

Examples of nutritionally improved crops include (Newell-McGloughlin, Plant Physiology, July 2008, Vol. 147, pp. 939-953):

-   -   modified protein quality, content and/or amino acid composition,         such as have been described for Bahiagrass (Luciani et al. 2005,         Florida Genetics Conference Poster), Canola (Roesler et al.,         1997, Plant Physiol 113 75-81), Maize (Cromwell et al, 1967,         1969 J Anim Sci 26 1325-1331, O'Quin et al. 2000 J Anim Sci 78         2144-2149, Yang et al. 2002, Transgenic Res 11 11-20, Young et         al. 2004, Plant J 38 910-922), Potato (Yu J and Ao, 1997 Acta         Bot Sin 39 329-334; Chakraborty et al. 2000, Proc Natl Acad Sci         USA 97 3724-3729; Li et al. 2001) Chin Sci Bull 46 482-484, Rice         (Katsube et al. 1999, Plant Physiol 120 1063-1074), Soybean         (Dinkins et al. 2001, Rapp 2002, In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Plant 37         742-747), Sweet Potato (Egnin and Prakash 1997, In Vitro Cell         Dev Biol 33 52A).     -   essential amino acid content, such as has been described for         Canola (Falco et al. 1995, Bio/Technology 13 577-582), Lupin         (White et al. 2001, J Sci Food Agric 81 147-154), Maize (Lai and         Messing, 2002, Agbios 2008 GM crop database (Mar. 11, 2008)),         Potato (Zeh et al. 2001, Plant Physiol 127 792-802), Sorghum         (Zhao et al. 2003, Kluwer Academic Publishers, Dordrecht, The         Netherlands, pp 413-416), Soybean (Falco et al. 1995         Bio/Technology 13 577-582; Galili et al. 2002 Crit Rev Plant Sci         21 167-204).     -   Oils and Fatty acids such as for Canola (Dehesh et al. (1996)         Plant J 9 167-172 [PubMed]; Del Vecchio (1996) INFORM         International News on Fats, Oils and Related Materials 7         230-243; Roesler et al. (1997) Plant Physiol 113 75-81 [PMC free         article] [PubMed]; Froman and Ursin (2002, 2003) Abstracts of         Papers of the American Chemical Society 223 U35; James et         al. (2003) Am J Clin Nutr 77 1140-1145 [PubMed]; Agbios (2008,         above); coton (Chapman et al. (2001). J Am Oil Chem Soc 78         941-947; Liu et al. (2002) J Am Coll Nutr 21 205S-211S [PubMed];         O'Neill (2007) Australian Life Scientist.         http://www.biotechnews.com.au/index.php/id; 866694817; fp; 4;         fpid; 2 (Jun. 17, 2008), Linseed (Abbadi et al., 2004, Plant         Cell 16: 2734-2748), Maize (Young et al., 2004, Plant J 38         910-922), oil palm (Jalani et al. 1997, J Am Oil Chem Soc 74         1451-1455; Parveez, 2003, AgBiotechNet 113 1-8), Rice (Anai et         al., 2003, Plant Cell Rep 21 988-992), Soybean (Reddy and         Thomas, 1996, Nat Biotechnol 14 639-642; Kinney and Kwolton,         1998, Blackie Academic and Professional, London, pp 193-213),         Sunflower (Arcadia, Biosciences 2008)     -   Carbohydrates, such as Fructans described for Chicory         (Smeekens (1997) Trends Plant Sci 2 286-287, Sprenger et         al. (1997) FEBS Lett 400 355-358, Sévenier et al. (1998) Nat         Biotechnol 16 843-846), Maize (Caimi et al. (1996) Plant Physiol         110 355-363), Potato (Hellwege et al., 1997 Plant J 12         1057-1065), Sugar Beet (Smeekens et al. 1997, above), Inulin,         such as described for Potato (Hellewege et al. 2000, Proc Natl         Acad Sci USA 97 8699-8704), Starch, such as described for Rice         (Schwall et al. (2000) Nat Biotechnol 18 551-554, Chiang et         al. (2005) Mol Breed 15 125-143),     -   Vitamins and carotenoids, such as described for Canola (Shintani         and DellaPenna (1998) Science 282 2098-2100), Maize (Rocheford         et al. (2002). J Am Coll Nutr 21 191S-198S, Cahoon et al. (2003)         Nat Biotechnol 21 1082-1087, Chen et al. (2003) Proc Natl Acad         Sci USA 100 3525-3530), Mustardseed (Shewmaker et al. (1999)         Plant J 20 401-412, Potato (Ducreux et al., 2005, J Exp Bot 56         81-89), Rice (Ye et al. (2000) Science 287 303-305, Strawberry         (Agius et al. (2003), Nat Biotechnol 21 177-181), Tomato (Rosati         et al. (2000) Plant J 24 413-419, Fraser et al. (2001) J Sci         Food Agric 81 822-827, Mehta et al. (2002) Nat Biotechnol 20         613-618, Diaz de la Garza et al. (2004) Proc Natl Acad Sci USA         101 13720-13725, Enfissi et al. (2005) Plant Biotechnol J 3         17-27, DellaPenna (2007) Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 104 3675-3676.     -   Functional secondary metabolites, such as described for Apple         (stilbenes, Szankowski et al. (2003) Plant Cell Rep 22:         141-149), Alfalfa (resveratrol, Hipskind and Paiva (2000) Mol         Plant Microbe Interact 13 551-562), Kiwi (resveratrol, Kobayashi         et al. (2000) Plant Cell Rep 19 904-910), Maize and Soybean         (flavonoids, Yu et al. (2000) Plant Physiol 124 781-794), Potato         (anthocyanin and alkaloid glycoside, Lukaszewicz et al. (2004) J         Agric Food Chem 52 1526-1533), Rice (flavonoids & resveratrol,         Stark-Lorenzen et al. (1997) Plant Cell Rep 16 668-673, Shin et         al. (2006) Plant Biotechnol J 4 303-315), Tomato (+resveratrol,         chlorogenic acid, flavonoids, stilbene; Rosati et al. (2000)         above, Muir et al. (2001) Nature 19 470-474, Niggeweg et         al. (2004) Nat Biotechnol 22 746-754, Giovinazzo et al. (2005)         Plant Biotechnol J 3 57-69), wheat (caffeic and ferulic acids,         resveratrol; United Press International (2002)); and     -   Mineral availabilities such as described for Alfalfa (phytase,         Austin-Phillips et al. (1999)         http://www.molecularfarming.com/nonmedical.html), Lettuse (iron,         Goto et al. (2000) Theor Appl Genet 100 658-664), Rice (iron,         Lucca et al. (2002) J Am Coll Nutr 21 184S-190S), Maize, Soybean         and wheate (phytase, Drakakaki et al. (2005) Plant Mol Biol 59         869-880, Denbow et al. (1998) Poult Sci 77 878-881,         Brinch-Pedersen et al. (2000) Mol Breed 6 195-206).

In particular embodiments, the value-added trait is related to the envisaged health benefits of the compounds present in the plant. For instance, in particular embodiments, the value-added crop is obtained by applying the methods of the invention to ensure the modification of or induce/increase the synthesis of one or more of the following compounds:

-   -   Carotenoids, such as α-Carotene present in carrots which         Neutralizes free radicals that may cause damage to cells or         β-Carotene present in various fruits and vegetables which         neutralizes free radicals     -   Lutein present in green vegetables which contributes to         maintenance of healthy vision     -   Lycopene present in tomato and tomato products, which is         believed to reduce the risk of prostate cancer     -   Zeaxanthin, present in citrus and maize, which contributes to         maintenance of healthy vision     -   Dietary fiber such as insoluble fiber present in wheat bran         which may reduce the risk of breast and/or colon cancer and         β-Glucan present in oat, soluble fiber present in Psylium and         whole cereal grains which may reduce the risk of cardiovascular         disease (CND)     -   Fatty acids, such as ω-3 fatty acids which may reduce the risk         of CVD and improve mental and visual functions, Conjugated         linoleic acid, which may improve body composition, may decrease         risk of certain cancers and GLA which may reduce inflammation         risk of cancer and CVD, may improve body composition     -   Flavonoids such as Hydroxycinnamates, present in wheat which         have Antioxidant-like activities, may reduce risk of         degenerative diseases, flavonols, catechins and tannins present         in fruits and vegetables which neutralize free radicals and may         reduce risk of cancer     -   Glucosinolates, indoles, isothiocyanates, such as Sulforaphane,         present in Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, kale), horseradish,         which neutralize free radicals, may reduce risk of cancer     -   Phenolics, such as stilbenes present in grape which May reduce         risk of degenerative diseases, heart disease, and cancer, may         have longevity effect and caffeic acid and ferulic acid present         in vegetables and citrus which have Antioxidant-like activities,         may reduce risk of degenerative diseases, heart disease, and eye         disease, and epicatechin present in cacao which has         Antioxidant-like activities, may reduce risk of degenerative         diseases and heart disease     -   Plant stanols/sterols present in maize, soy, wheat and wooden         oils which May reduce risk of coronary heart disease by lowering         blood cholesterol levels     -   Fructans, inulins, fructo-oligosaccharides present in Jerusalem         artichoke, shallot, onion powder which may improve         gastrointestinal health     -   Saponins present in soybean, which may lower LDL cholesterol     -   Soybean protein present in soybean which may reduce risk of         heart disease     -   Phytoestrogens such as isoflavones present in soybean which May         reduce menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes, may reduce         osteoporosis and CVD and lignins present in flax, rye and         vegetables, which May protect against heart disease and some         cancers, may lower cholesterol, total cholesterol.     -   Sulfides and thiols such as diallyl sulphide present in onion,         garlic, olive, leek and scallon and Allyl methyl trisulfide,         dithiolthiones present in cruciferous vegetables which may lower         LDL cholesterol, helps to maintain healthy immune system     -   Tannins, such as proanthocyanidins, present in cranberry, cocoa,         which may improve urinary tract health, may reduce risk of CND         and high blood pressure     -   Etc.

In addition, the methods of the present invention also envisage modifying protein/starch functionality, shelf life, taste/aesthetics, fiber quality, and allergen, antinutrient, and toxin reduction traits.

In an embodiment, the plant may be a legume. The present invention may utilize the herein disclosed CRISP-Cas9 system for exploring and modifying, for example, without limitation, soybeans, peas, and peanuts. Curtin et al. provides a toolbox for legume functional genomics. (See Curtin et al., “A genome engineering toolbox for legume Functional genomics,” International Plant and Animal Genome Conference XXII 2014). Curtin used the genetic transformation of CRISPR to knock-out/down single copy and duplicated legume genes both in hairy root and whole plant systems. Some of the target genes were chosen in order to explore and optimize the features of knock-out/down systems (e.g., phytoene desaturase), while others were identified by soybean homology to Arabidopsis Dicer-like genes or by genome-wide association studies of nodulation in Medicago.

Peanut allergies and allergies to legumes generally are a real and serious health concern. The CRISPR-Cas9 effector protein system of the present invention can be used to identify and then edit or silence genes encoding allergenic proteins of such legumes. Without limitation as to such genes and proteins, Nicolaou et al. identifies allergenic proteins in peanuts, soybeans, lentils, peas, lupin, green beans, and mung beans. See, Nicolaou et al., Current Opinion in Allergy and Clinical Immunology 2011; 11(3):222).

Accordingly, the invention encompasses methods for producing plants with nutritional added value, said methods comprising introducing into a plant cell a gene encoding an enzyme involved in the production of a component of added nutritional value using the CRISPR/Cas9 system as described herein and regenerating a plant from said plant cell, said plant characterized in an increase expression of said component of added nutritional value. In particular embodiments, the CRISPR/Cas9 system is used to modify the endogenous synthesis of these compounds indirectly, e.g. by modifying one or more transcription factors that controls the metabolism of this compound. Methods for introducing a gene of interest into a plant cell and/or modifying an endogenous gene using the CRISPR/Cas9 system are described herein above.

Some specific examples of modifications in plants that have been modified to confer value-added traits are: plants with modified fatty acid metabolism, for example, by transforming a plant with an antisense gene of stearyl-ACP desaturase to increase stearic acid content of the plant. See Knultzon et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 89:2624 (1992). Another example involves decreasing phytate content, for example by cloning and then reintroducing DNA associated with the single allele which may be responsible for maize mutants characterized by low levels of phytic acid. See Raboy et al, Maydica 35:383 (1990).

Similarly, expression of the maize (Zea mays) Tfs C1 and R, which regulate the production of flavonoids in maize aleurone layers under the control of a strong promoter, resulted in a high accumulation rate of anthocyanins in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), presumably by activating the entire pathway (Bruce et al., 2000, Plant Cell 12:65-80). DellaPenna (Welsch et al., 2007 Annu Rev Plant Biol 57: 711-738) found that Tf RAP2.2 and its interacting partner SINAT2 increased carotenogenesis in Arabidopsis leaves. Expressing the Tf Dof1 induced the up-regulation of genes encoding enzymes for carbon skeleton production, a marked increase of amino acid content, and a reduction of the Glc level in transgenic Arabidopsis (Yanagisawa, 2004 Plant Cell Physiol 45: 386-391), and the DOF Tf AtDof1.1 (OBP2) up-regulated all steps in the glucosinolate biosynthetic pathway in Arabidopsis (Skirycz et al., 2006 Plant J 47: 10-24).

Reducing Allergen in Plants

In particular embodiments the methods provided herein are used to generate plants with a reduced level of allergens, making them safer for the consumer. In particular embodiments, the methods comprise modifying expression of one or more genes responsible for the production of plant allergens. For instance, in particular embodiments, the methods comprise down-regulating expression of a Lol p5 gene in a plant cell, such as a ryegrass plant cell and regenerating a plant therefrom so as to reduce allergenicity of the pollen of said plant (Bhalla et al. 1999, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA Vol. 96: 11676-11680).

Screening Methods for Endogenous Genes of Interest

The methods provided herein further allow the identification of genes of value encoding enzymes involved in the production of a component of added nutritional value or generally genes affecting agronomic traits of interest, across species, phyla, and plant kingdom. By selectively targeting e.g. genes encoding enzymes of metabolic pathways in plants using the CRISPR/Cas9 system as described herein, the genes responsible for certain nutritional aspects of a plant can be identified. Similarly, by selectively targeting genes which may affect a desirable agronomic trait, the relevant genes can be identified. Accordingly, the present invention encompasses screening methods for genes encoding enzymes involved in the production of compounds with a particular nutritional value and/or agronomic traits.

Further Applications of the CRISPR/Cas9 System in Plants and Yeasts Use of CRISPR/Cas9 System in Biofuel Production

The term “biofuel” as used herein is an alternative fuel made from plant and plant-derived resources. Renewable biofuels can be extracted from organic matter whose energy has been obtained through a process of carbon fixation or are made through the use or conversion of biomass. This biomass can be used directly for biofuels or can be converted to convenient energy containing substances by thermal conversion, chemical conversion, and biochemical conversion. This biomass conversion can result in fuel in solid, liquid, or gas form. There are two types of biofuels: bioethanol and biodiesel. Bioethanol is mainly produced by the sugar fermentation process of cellulose (starch), which is mostly derived from maize and sugar cane. Biodiesel on the other hand is mainly produced from oil crops such as rapeseed, palm, and soybean. Biofuels are used mainly for transportation.

Enhancing Plant Properties for Biofuel Production

In particular embodiments, the methods using the CRISPR/Cas9 system as described herein are used to alter the properties of the cell wall in order to facilitate access by key hydrolysing agents for a more efficient release of sugars for fermentation. In particular embodiments, the biosynthesis of cellulose and/or lignin are modified. Cellulose is the major component of the cell wall. The biosynthesis of cellulose and lignin are co-regulated. By reducing the proportion of lignin in a plant the proportion of cellulose can be increased. In particular embodiments, the methods described herein are used to downregulate lignin biosynthesis in the plant so as to increase fermentable carbohydrates. More particularly, the methods described herein are used to downregulate at least a first lignin biosynthesis gene selected from the group consisting of 4-coumarate 3-hydroxylase (C3H), phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), cinnamate 4-hydroxylase (C4H), hydroxycinnamoyl transferase (HCT), caffeic acid O-methyltransferase (COMT), caffeoyl CoA 3-O-methyltransferase (CCoAOMT), ferulate 5-hydroxylase (F5H), cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD), cinnamoyl CoA-reductase (CCR), 4-coumarate-CoA ligase (4CL), monolignol-lignin-specific glycosyltransferase, and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) as disclosed in WO 2008064289 A2.

In particular embodiments, the methods described herein are used to produce plant mass that produces lower levels of acetic acid during fermentation (see also WO 2010096488). More particularly, the methods disclosed herein are used to generate mutations in homologs to Cas1L to reduce polysaccharide acetylation.

Modifying Yeast for Biofuel Production

In particular embodiments, the Cas9 enzyme provided herein is used for bioethanol production by recombinant micro-organisms. For instance, Cas9 can be used to engineer micro-organisms, such as yeast, to generate biofuel or biopolymers from fermentable sugars and optionally to be able to degrade plant-derived lignocellulose derived from agricultural waste as a source of fermentable sugars. More particularly, the invention provides methods whereby the CRISPR/Cas9 complex is used to introduce foreign genes required for biofuel production into micro-organisms and/or to modify endogenous genes why may interfere with the biofuel synthesis. More particularly the methods involve introducing into a micro-organism such as a yeast one or more nucleotide sequence encoding enzymes involved in the conversion of pyruvate to ethanol or another product of interest. In particular embodiments the methods ensure the introduction of one or more enzymes which allows the micro-organism to degrade cellulose, such as a cellulase. In yet further embodiments, the CRISPR/Cas9 complex is used to modify endogenous metabolic pathways which compete with the biofuel production pathway.

Accordingly, in more particular embodiments, the methods described herein are used to modify a micro-organism as follows:

-   -   to introduce at least one heterologous nucleic acid or increase         expression of at least one endogenous nucleic acid encoding a         plant cell wall degrading enzyme, such that said micro-organism         is capable of expressing said nucleic acid and of producing and         secreting said plant cell wall degrading enzyme;     -   to introduce at least one heterologous nucleic acid or increase         expression of at least one endogenous nucleic acid encoding an         enzyme that converts pyruvate to acetaldehyde optionally         combined with at least one heterologous nucleic acid encoding an         enzyme that converts acetaldehyde to ethanol such that said host         cell is capable of expressing said nucleic acid; and/or     -   to modify at least one nucleic acid encoding for an enzyme in a         metabolic pathway in said host cell, wherein said pathway         produces a metabolite other than acetaldehyde from pyruvate or         ethanol from acetaldehyde, and wherein said modification results         in a reduced production of said metabolite, or to introduce at         least one nucleic acid encoding for an inhibitor of said enzyme.

Modifying Algae and Plants for Production of Vegetable Oils or Biofuels

Transgenic algae or other plants such as rape may be particularly useful in the production of vegetable oils or biofuels such as alcohols (especially methanol and ethanol), for instance. These may be engineered to express or overexpress high levels of oil or alcohols for use in the oil or biofuel industries.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,945,839 describes a method for engineering Micro-Algae (Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cells) species) using Cas9. Using similar tools, the methods of the CRISPR/Cas9 system described herein can be applied on Chlamydomonas species and other algae. In particular embodiments, Cas9 and chi/sgRNA are introduced in algae expressed using a vector that expresses Cas9 under the control of a constitutive promoter such as Hsp70A-Rbc S2 or Beta2-tubulin. Chi/sgRNA will be delivered using a vector containing T7 promoter. Alternatively, Cas9 mRNA and in vitro transcribed chi/sgRNA can be delivered to algae cells. Electroporation protocol follows standard recommended protocol from the GeneArt Chlamydomonas Engineering kit.

The Use of Cas9 in the Generation of Micro-Organisms Capable of Fatty Acid Production

In particular embodiments, the methods of the invention are used for the generation of genetically engineered micro-organisms capable of the production of fatty esters, such as fatty acid methyl esters (“FAME”) and fatty acid ethyl esters (“FAEE”).

In particular embodiments it is envisaged to specifically modify genes that are involved in the modification of the quantity of lipids and/or the quality of the lipids produced by the algal cell. Examples of genes encoding enzymes involved in the pathways of fatty acid synthesis can encode proteins having for instance acetyl-CoA carboxylase, fatty acid synthase, 3-ketoacyl_acyl-carrier protein synthase III, glycerol-3-phospate deshydrogenase (G3PDH), Enoyl-acyl carrier protein reductase (Enoyl-ACP-reductase), glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase, lysophosphatidic acyl transferase or diacylglycerol acyltransferase, phospholipid: diacylglycerol acyltransferase, phoshatidate phosphatase, fatty acid thioesterase such as palmitoyl protein thioesterase, or malic enzyme activities. In further embodiments it is envisaged to generate diatoms that have increased lipid accumulation. This can be achieved by targeting genes that decrease lipid catabolisation. Of particular interest for use in the methods of the present invention are genes involved in the activation of both triacylglycerol and free fatty acids, as well as genes directly involved in β-oxidation of fatty acids, such as acyl-CoA synthetase, 3-ketoacyl-CoA thiolase, acyl-CoA oxidase activity and phosphoglucomutase. The Cas9 system and methods described herein can be used to specifically activate such genes in diatoms as to increase their lipid content.

Typically, host cells can be engineered to produce fatty esters from a carbon source, such as an alcohol, present in the medium, by expression or overexpression of a gene encoding a thioesterase, a gene encoding an acyl-CoA synthase, and a gene encoding an ester synthase. Accordingly, the methods provided herein are used to modify a micro-organisms so as to overexpress or introduce a thioesterase gene, a gene encoding an acyl-CoA synthase, and a gene encoding an ester synthase. In particular embodiments, the thioesterase gene is selected from tesA, ‘tesA, tesB,fatB, fatB2, fatB3, fatA1, or fatA. In particular embodiments, the gene encoding an acyl-CoA synthase is selected from fadDJadK, BH3103, pfl-4354, EAV15023, fadD1, fadD2, RPC_4074,fadDD35, fadDD22, faa39, or an identified gene encoding an enzyme having the same properties. In particular embodiments, the gene encoding an ester synthase is a gene encoding a synthase/acyl-CoA:diacylglyceryl acyltransferase from Simmondsia chinensis, Acinetobacter sp. ADP, Alcanivorax borkumensis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Fundibacter jadensis, Arabidopsis thaliana, or Alkaligenes eutrophus, or a variant thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the methods provided herein are used to decrease expression in said micro-organism of at least one of a gene encoding an acyl-CoA dehydrogenase, a gene encoding an outer membrane protein receptor, and a gene encoding a transcriptional regulator of fatty acid biosynthesis. In particular embodiments one or more of these genes is inactivated, such as by introduction of a mutation. In particular embodiments, the gene encoding an acyl-CoA dehydrogenase is fadE. In particular embodiments, the gene encoding a transcriptional regulator of fatty acid biosynthesis encodes a DNA transcription repressor, for example, fabR.

Additionally or alternatively, said micro-organism is modified to reduce expression of at least one of a gene encoding a pyruvate formate lyase, a gene encoding a lactate dehydrogenase, or both. In particular embodiments, the gene encoding a pyruvate formate lyase is pflB. In particular embodiments, the gene encoding a lactate dehydrogenase is IdhA. In particular embodiments one or more of these genes is inactivated, such as by introduction of a mutation therein.

In particular embodiments, the micro-organism is selected from the genus Escherichia, Bacillus, Lactobacillus, Rhodococcus, Synechococcus, Synechoystis, Pseudomonas, Aspergillus, Trichoderma, Neurospora, Fusarium, Humicola, Rhizomucor, Kluyveromyces, Pichia, Mucor, Myceliophtora, Penicillium, Phanerochaete, Pleurotus, Trametes, Chrysosporium, Saccharomyces, Stenotrophamonas, Schizosaccharomyces, Yarrowia, or Streptomyces.

The Use of Cas9 in the Generation of Micro-Organisms Capable of Organic Acid Production

The methods provided herein are further used to engineer micro-organisms capable of organic acid production, more particularly from pentose or hexose sugars. In particular embodiments, the methods comprise introducing into a micro-organism an exogenous LDH gene. In particular embodiments, the organic acid production in said micro-organisms is additionally or alternatively increased by inactivating endogenous genes encoding proteins involved in an endogenous metabolic pathway which produces a metabolite other than the organic acid of interest and/or wherein the endogenous metabolic pathway consumes the organic acid. In particular embodiments, the modification ensures that the production of the metabolite other than the organic acid of interest is reduced. According to particular embodiments, the methods are used to introduce at least one engineered gene deletion and/or inactivation of an endogenous pathway in which the organic acid is consumed or a gene encoding a product involved in an endogenous pathway which produces a metabolite other than the organic acid of interest. In particular embodiments, the at least one engineered gene deletion or inactivation is in one or more gene encoding an enzyme selected from the group consisting of pyruvate decarboxylase (pdc), fumarate reductase, alcohol dehydrogenase (adh), acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (ppc), D-lactate dehydrogenase (d-ldh), L-lactate dehydrogenase (l-ldh), lactate 2-monooxygenase. In further embodiments the at least one engineered gene deletion and/or inactivation is in an endogenous gene encoding pyruvate decarboxylase (pdc).

In further embodiments, the micro-organism is engineered to produce lactic acid and the at least one engineered gene deletion and/or inactivation is in an endogenous gene encoding lactate dehydrogenase. Additionally or alternatively, the micro-organism comprises at least one engineered gene deletion or inactivation of an endogenous gene encoding a cytochrome-dependent lactate dehydrogenase, such as a cytochrome B2-dependent L-lactate dehydrogenase.

The Use of Cas9 in the Generation of Improved Xylose or Cellobiose Utilizing Yeasts Strains

In particular embodiments, the CRISPR/Cas9 system may be applied to select for improved xylose or cellobiose utilizing yeast strains. Error-prone PCR can be used to amplify one (or more) genes involved in the xylose utilization or cellobiose utilization pathways. Examples of genes involved in xylose utilization pathways and cellobiose utilization pathways may include, without limitation, those described in Ha, S. J., et al. (2011) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 108(2):504-9 and Galazka, J. M., et al. (2010) Science 330(6000):84-6. Resulting libraries of double-stranded DNA molecules, each comprising a random mutation in such a selected gene could be co-transformed with the components of the CRISPR/Cas9 system into a yeast strain (for instance S288C) and strains can be selected with enhanced xylose or cellobiose utilization capacity, as described in WO2015138855.

The Use of Cas9 in the Generation of Improved Yeasts Strains for Use in Isoprenoid Biosynthesis

Tadas Jakoc̆iūnas et al. described the successful application of a multiplex CRISPR/Cas9 system for genome engineering of up to 5 different genomic loci in one transformation step in baker's yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Metabolic Engineering Volume 28, March 2015, Pages 213-222) resulting in strains with high mevalonate production, a key intermediate for the industrially important isoprenoid biosynthesis pathway. In particular embodiments, the CRISPR1Cas9 system may be applied in a multiplex genome engineering method as described herein for identifying additional high producing yeast strains for use in isoprenoid synthesis.

The Use of Cas9 in the Generation of Lactic Acid Producing Yeasts Strains

In another embodiment, successful application of a multiplex CRISPR1Cas9 system is encompassed. In analogy with Vratislav Stovicek et al. (Metabolic Engineering Communications, Volume 2, December 2015, Pages 13-22), improved lactic acid-producing strains can be designed and obtained in a single transformation event. In a particular embodiment, the CRISPR/Cas9 system is used for simultaneously inserting the heterologous lactate dehydrogenase gene and disruption of two endogenous genes PDC1 and PDC5 genes.

Further Applications of the CRISPR/Cas9 System in Plants

In particular embodiments, the CRISPR system, and preferably the CRISPR/Cas9 system described herein, can be used for visualization of genetic element dynamics. For example, CRISPR imaging can visualize either repetitive or non-repetitive genomic sequences, report telomere length change and telomere movements and monitor the dynamics of gene loci throughout the cell cycle (Chen et al., Cell, 2013). These methods may also be applied to plants.

Other applications of the CRISPR system, and preferably the CRISPR/Cas9 system described herein, is the targeted gene disruption positive-selection screening in vitro and in vivo (Malina et al., Genes and Development, 2013). These methods may also be applied to plants.

In particular embodiments, fusion of inactive Cas9 endonucleases with histone-modifying enzymes can introduce custom changes in the complex epigenome (Rusk et al., Nature Methods, 2014). These methods may also be applied to plants.

In particular embodiments, the CRISPR system, and preferably the CRISPR/Cas9 system described herein, can be used to purify a specific portion of the chromatin and identify the associated proteins, thus elucidating their regulatory roles in transcription (Waldrip et al., Epigenetics, 2014). These methods may also be applied to plants.

In particular embodiments, present invention can be used as a therapy for virus removal in plant systems as it is able to cleave both viral DNA and RNA. Previous studies in human systems have demonstrated the success of utilizing CRISPR in targeting the single strand RNA virus, hepatitis C (A. Price, et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci, 2015) as well as the double stranded DNA virus, hepatitis B (V. Ramanan, et al., Sci. Rep, 2015). These methods may also be adapted for using the CRISPR/Cas9 system in plants.

In particular embodiments, present invention could be used to alter genome complexity. In further particular embodiment, the CRISPR system, and preferably the CRISPR/Cas9 system described herein, can be used to disrupt or alter chromosome number and generate haploid plants, which only contain chromosomes from one parent. Such plants can be induced to undergo chromosome duplication and converted into diploid plants containing only homozygous alleles (Karimi-Ashtiyani et al., PNAS, 2015; Anton et al., Nucleus, 2014). These methods may also be applied to plants.

In particular embodiments, the CRISPR/Cas9 system described herein, can be used for self-cleavage. As described, the promotor of the Cas9 enzyme and sgRNA is a constitutive promotor and a second sgRNA is introduced in the same transformation cassette, but controlled by an inducible promoter. This second sgRNA can be designated to induce site-specific cleavage in the Cas9 gene in order to create a non-functional Cas9. In a further particular embodiment, the second sgRNA induces cleavage on both ends of the transformation cassette, resulting in the removal of the cassette from the host genome. This system offers a controlled duration of cellular exposure to the Cas enzyme and further minimizes off-target editing. Furthermore, cleavage of both ends of a CRISPR/Cas cassette can be used to generate transgene-free T₀ plants with biallelic mutations (e.g. Moore et al., Nucleic Acids Research, 2014; Schaeffer et al., Plant Science, 2015). The methods of Moore et al. may be applied to the CRISPR/Cas9 systems described herein.

Improved Plants

The present invention also provides plants and yeast cells obtainable and obtained by the methods provided herein. The improved plants obtained by the methods described herein may be useful in food or feed production through expression of genes which, for instance ensure tolerance to plant pests, herbicides, drought, low or high temperatures, excessive water, etc.

The improved plants obtained by the methods described herein, especially crops and algae may be useful in food or feed production through expression of, for instance, higher protein, carbohydrate, nutrient or vitamin levels than would normally be seen in the wildtype. In this regard, improved plants, especially pulses and tubers are preferred.

Improved algae or other plants such as rape may be particularly useful in the production of vegetable oils or biofuels such as alcohols (especially methanol and ethanol), for instance. These may be engineered to express or overexpress high levels of oil or alcohols for use in the oil or biofuel industries.

The invention also provides for improved parts of a plant. Plant parts include, but are not limited to, leaves, stems, roots, tubers, seeds, endosperm, ovule, and pollen. Plant parts as envisaged herein may be viable, nonviable, regeneratable, and/or non-regeneratable.

It is also encompassed herein to provide plant cells and plants generated according to the methods of the invention. Gametes, seeds, embryos, either zygotic or somatic, progeny or hybrids of plants comprising the genetic modification, which are produced by traditional breeding methods, are also included within the scope of the present invention. Such plants may contain a heterologous or foreign DNA sequence inserted at or instead of a target sequence. Alternatively, such plants may contain only an alteration (mutation, deletion, insertion, substitution) in one or more nucleotides. As such, such plants will only be different from their progenitor plants by the presence of the particular modification.

Farm and Production Animals

Thus, the invention provides a plant, animal or cell, produced by the present methods, or a progeny thereof. The progeny may be a clone of the produced plant or animal, or may result from sexual reproduction by crossing with other individuals of the same species to introgress further desirable traits into their offspring. The cell may be in vivo or ex vivo in the cases of multicellular organisms, particularly animals or plants.

Organisms and Animals; Methods

The present application may also be extended to other agricultural applications such as, for example, farm and production animals. For example, pigs have many features that make them attractive as biomedical models, especially in regenerative medicine. In particular, pigs with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) may provide useful models for regenerative medicine, xenotransplantation, and tumor development and will aid in developing therapies for human SCID patients. Lee et al., (Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2014 May 20; 111(20):7260-5) utilized a reporter-guided transcription activator-like effector nuclease (TALEN) system to generated targeted modifications of recombination activating gene (RAG) 2 in somatic cells at high efficiency, including some that affected both alleles. CRISPR Cas may be applied to a similar system.

The methods of Lee et al., (Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2014 May 20; 111(20):7260-5) may be applied to the present invention as follows. Mutated pigs are produced by targeted modification of RAG2 in fetal fibroblast cells followed by SCNT and embryo transfer. Constructs coding for CRISPR Cas and a reporter are electroporated into fetal-derived fibroblast cells. After 48 h, transfected cells expressing the green fluorescent protein are sorted into individual wells of a 96-well plate at an estimated dilution of a single cell per well. Targeted modification of RAG2 are screened by amplifying a genomic DNA fragment flanking any CRISPR Cas cutting sites followed by sequencing the PCR products. After screening and ensuring lack of off-site mutations, cells carrying targeted modification of RAG2 are used for SCNT. The polar body, along with a portion of the adjacent cytoplasm of oocyte, presumably containing the metaphase II plate, are removed, and a donor cell are placed in the perivitelline. The reconstructed embryos are then electrically porated to fuse the donor cell with the oocyte and then chemically activated. The activated embryos are incubated in Porcine Zygote Medium 3 (PZM3) with 0.5 μM Scriptaid (S7817; Sigma-Aldrich) for 14-16 h. Embryos are then washed to remove the Scriptaid and cultured in PZM3 until they were transferred into the oviducts of surrogate pigs.

The present invention is also applicable to modifying SNPs of other animals, such as cows. Tan et al. (Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2013 Oct. 8; 110(41): 16526-16531) expanded the livestock gene editing toolbox to include transcription activator-like (TAL) effector nuclease (TALEN)- and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9-stimulated homology-directed repair (HDR) using plasmid, rAAV, and oligonucleotide templates. Gene specific gRNA sequences were cloned into the Church lab gRNA vector (Addgene ID: 41824) according to their methods (Mali P, et al. (2013) RNA-Guided Human Genome Engineering via Cas9. Science 339(6121):823-826). The Cas9 nuclease was provided either by co-transfection of the hCas9 plasmid (Addgene ID: 41815) or mRNA synthesized from RCIScript-hCas9. This RCIScript-hCas9 was constructed by sub-cloning the XbaI-AgeI fragment from the hCas9 plasmid (encompassing the hCas9 cDNA) into the RCIScript plasmid.

Heo et al. (Stem Cells Dev. 2015 Feb. 1; 24(3):393-402. doi: 10.1089/scd.2014.0278. Epub 2014 Nov. 3) reported highly efficient gene targeting in the bovine genome using bovine pluripotent cells and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/Cas9 nuclease. First, Heo et al. generate induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from bovine somatic fibroblasts by the ectopic expression of yamanaka factors and GSK3β and MEK inhibitor (2i) treatment. Heo et al. observed that these bovine iPSCs are highly similar to naïve pluripotent stem cells with regard to gene expression and developmental potential in teratomas. Moreover, CRISPR/Cas9 nuclease, which was specific for the bovine NANOG locus, showed highly efficient editing of the bovine genome in bovine iPSCs and embryos.

Igenity® provides a profile analysis of animals, such as cows, to perform and transmit traits of economic traits of economic importance, such as carcass composition, carcass quality, maternal and reproductive traits and average daily gain. The analysis of a comprehensive Igenity® profile begins with the discovery of DNA markers (most often single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs). All the markers behind the Igenity® profile were discovered by independent scientists at research institutions, including universities, research organizations, and government entities such as USDA. Markers are then analyzed at Igenity® in validation populations. Igenity® uses multiple resource populations that represent various production environments and biological types, often working with industry partners from the seedstock, cow-calf, feedlot and/or packing segments of the beef industry to collect phenotypes that are not commonly available. Cattle genome databases are widely available, see, e.g., the NAGRP Cattle Genome Coordination Program (http.//www.animalgenome.org/cattle/maps/db.html). Thus, the present invention maybe applied to target bovine SNPs. One of skill in the art may utilize the above protocols for targeting SNPs and apply them to bovine SNPs as in, for example, by Tan et al. or Heo et al.

Qingjian Zou et al. (Journal of Molecular Cell Biology Advance Access published Oct. 12, 2015) demonstrated increased muscle mass in dogs by targeting the first exon of the dog Myostatin (MSTN) gene (a negative regulator of skeletal muscle mass). First, the efficiency of the sgRNA was validated, using cotransfection of the sgRNA targeting MSTN with a Cas9 vector into canine embryonic fibroblasts (CEFs). Thereafter, MSTN KO dogs were generated by micro-injecting embryos with normal morphology with a mixture of Cas9 mRNA and MSTN sgRNA and auto-transplantation of the zygotes into the oviduct of the same female dog. The knock-out puppies displayed an obvious muscular phenotype on thighs compared with its wild-type littermate sister.

Livestock—Pigs

Viral targets in livestock may include, in some embodiments, porcine CD163, for example on porcine macrophages. CD163 is associated with infection (thought to be through viral cell entry) by PRRSv (Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome virus, an arterivirus). Infection by PRRSv, especially of porcine alveolar macrophages (found in the lung), results in a previously incurable porcine syndrome (“Mystery swine disease” or “blue ear disease”) that causes suffering, including reproductive failure, weight loss and high mortality rates in domestic pigs. Opportunistic infections, such as enzootic pneumonia, meningitis and ear oedema, are often seen due to immune deficiency through loss of macrophage activity. It also has significant economic and environmental repercussions due to increased antibiotic use and financial loss (an estimated $660 m per year).

As reported by Kristin M Whitworth and Dr Randall Prather et al. (Nature Biotech 3434 published online 7 Dec. 2015) at the University of Missouri and in collaboration with Genus Plc, CD163 was targeted using CRISPR-Cas9 and the offspring of edited pigs were resistant when exposed to PRRSv. One founder male and one founder female, both of whom had mutations in exon 7 of CD163, were bred to produce offspring. The founder male possessed an 11-bp deletion in exon 7 on one allele, which results in a frameshift mutation and missense translation at amino acid 45 in domain 5 and a subsequent premature stop codon at amino acid 64. The other allele had a 2-bp addition in exon 7 and a 377-bp deletion in the preceding intron, which were predicted to result in the expression of the first 49 amino acids of domain 5, followed by a premature stop code at amino acid 85. The sow had a 7 bp addition in one allele that when translated was predicted to express the first 48 amino acids of domain 5, followed by a premature stop codon at amino acid 70. The sow's other allele was unamplifiable. Selected offspring were predicted to be a null animal (CD163−/−), i.e. a CD163 knock out.

Accordingly, in some embodiments, porcine alveolar macrophages may be targeted by the CRISPR protein. In some embodiments, porcine CD163 may be targeted by the CRISPR protein. In some embodiments, porcine CD163 may be knocked out through induction of a DSB or through insertions or deletions, for example targeting deletion or modification of exon 7, including one or more of those described above, or in other regions of the gene, for example deletion or modification of exon 5.

An edited pig and its progeny are also envisaged, for example a CD163 knock out pig. This may be for livestock, breeding or modelling purposes (i.e. a porcine model). Semen comprising the gene knock out is also provided.

CD163 is a member of the scavenger receptor cysteine-rich (SRCR) superfamily. Based on in vitro studies SRCR domain 5 of the protein is the domain responsible for unpackaging and release of the viral genome. As such, other members of the SRCR superfamily may also be targeted in order to assess resistance to other viruses. PRRSV is also a member of the mammalian arterivirus group, which also includes murine lactate dehydrogenase-elevating virus, simian hemorrhagic fever virus and equine arteritis virus. The arteriviruses share important pathogenesis properties, including macrophage tropism and the capacity to cause both severe disease and persistent infection. Accordingly, arteriviruses, and in particular murine lactate dehydrogenase-elevating virus, simian hemorrhagic fever virus and equine arteritis virus, may be targeted, for example through porcine CD163 or homologues thereof in other species, and murine, simian and equine models and knockout also provided.

Indeed, this approach may be extended to viruses or bacteria that cause other livestock diseases that may be transmitted to humans, such as Swine Influenza Virus (SIV) strains which include influenza C and the subtypes of influenza A known as H1N1, H1N2, H2N1, H3N1, H3N2, and H2N3, as well as pneumonia, meningitis and oedema mentioned above.

Xenotransplantation, Xenografts

The present invention also contemplates use of the CRISPR-Cas system described herein, e.g. Cas9 effector protein systems, to provide RNA-guided DNA nucleases adapted to be used to provide modified tissues for transplantation. For example, RNA-guided DNA nucleases may be used to knockout, knockdown or disrupt selected genes in an animal, such as a transgenic pig (such as the human heme oxygenase-1 transgenic pig line), for example by disrupting expression of genes that encode epitopes recognized by the human immune system, i.e. xenoantigen genes. Candidate porcine genes for disruption may for example include α(1,3)-galactosyltransferase and cytidine monophosphate-N-acetylneuraminic acid hydroxylase genes (see PCT Patent Publication WO 2014/066505). In addition, genes encoding endogenous retroviruses may be disrupted, for example the genes encoding all porcine endogenous retroviruses (see Yang et al., 2015, Genome-wide inactivation of porcine endogenous retroviruses (PERVs), Science 27 Nov. 2015: Vol. 350 no. 6264 pp. 1101-1104). In addition, RNA-guided DNA nucleases may be used to target a site for integration of additional genes in xenotransplant donor animals, such as a human CD55 gene to improve protection against hyperacute rejection.

Gene Drives and Application to Mosquito and Malaria

The present invention also contemplates use of the CRISPR-Cas system described herein, e.g. Cas9 effector protein systems, to provide RNA-guided gene drives, for example in systems analogous to gene drives described in PCT Patent Publication WO 2015/105928. Systems of this kind may for example provide methods for altering eukaryotic germline cells, by introducing into the germline cell a nucleic acid sequence encoding an RNA-guided DNA nuclease and one or more guide RNAs. The guide RNAs may be designed to be complementary to one or more target locations on genomic DNA of the germline cell. The nucleic acid sequence encoding the RNA guided DNA nuclease and the nucleic acid sequence encoding the guide RNAs may be provided on constructs between flanking sequences, with promoters arranged such that the germline cell may express the RNA guided DNA nuclease and the guide RNAs, together with any desired cargo-encoding sequences that are also situated between the flanking sequences. The flanking sequences will typically include a sequence which is identical to a corresponding sequence on a selected target chromosome, so that the flanking sequences work with the components encoded by the construct to facilitate insertion of the foreign nucleic acid construct sequences into genomic DNA at a target cut site by mechanisms such as homologous recombination, to render the germline cell homozygous for the foreign nucleic acid sequence. In this way, gene-drive systems are capable of introgressing desired cargo genes throughout a breeding population (Gantz et al., 2015, Highly efficient Cas9-mediated gene drive for population modification of the malaria vector mosquito Anopheles stephensi, PNAS 2015, published ahead of print Nov. 23, 2015, doi:10.1073/pnas.1521077112; Esvelt et al., 2014, Concerning RNA-guided gene drives for the alteration of wild populations eLife 2014; 3:e03401). In select embodiments, target sequences may be selected which have few potential off-target sites in a genome. Targeting multiple sites within a target locus, using multiple guide RNAs, may increase the cutting frequency and hinder the evolution of drive resistant alleles. Truncated guide RNAs may reduce off-target cutting. Paired nickases may be used instead of a single nuclease, to further increase specificity. Gene drive constructs may include cargo sequences encoding transcriptional regulators, for example to activate homologous recombination genes and/or repress non-homologous end-joining. Target sites may be chosen within an essential gene, so that non-homologous end-joining events may cause lethality rather than creating a drive-resistant allele. The gene drive constructs can be engineered to function in a range of hosts at a range of temperatures (Cho et al. 2013, Rapid and Tunable Control of Protein Stability in Caenorhabditis elegans Using a Small Molecule, PLoS ONE 8(8): e72393. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0072393).

FISH and Exemplary Methods of Using Inactivated CRISPR Cas9 Enzymes

In one aspect, the invention provides an engineered, non-naturally occurring CRISPR-Cas system comprising a catalytically inactivate Cas protein described herein, preferably an inactivated Cas9 (dCas9), and use of this system in fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). dCas9 which lacks the ability to produce DNA double-strand breaks may be fused with a fluorescent protein, such as the enhanced green fluorescent protein (eEGFP) and co-expressed with small guide RNAs to target pericentric, centric and teleomeric repeats in vivo. The dCas9 system can be used to visualize both repetitive sequences and individual genes in the human genome. Such new applications of labelled dCas9 CRISPR-cas systems may be important in imaging cells and studying the functional nuclear architecture, especially in cases with a small nucleus volume or complex 3-D structures. (Chen B, Gilbert L A, Cimini B A, Schnitzbauer J, Zhang W, Li G W, Park J, Blackburn E H, Weissman J S, Qi L S, Huang B. 2013. Dynamic imaging of genomic loci in living human cells by an optimized CRISPR/Cas system. Cell 155(7):1479-91. doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2013.12.001.)

Therapeutic Targeting with RNA-Guided Effector Protein Complex

As will be apparent, it is envisaged that the present system can be used to target any polynucleotide sequence of interest. The invention provides a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition, or one or more polynucleotides encoding components of said composition, or vector or delivery systems comprising one or more polynucleotides encoding components of said composition for use in a modifying a target cell in vivo, ex vivo or in vitro and, may be conducted in a manner alters the cell such that once modified the progeny or cell line of the CRISPR modified cell retains the altered phenotype. The modified cells and progeny may be part of a multi-cellular organism such as a plant or animal with ex vivo or in vivo application of CRISPR system to desired cell types. The CRISPR invention may be a therapeutic method of treatment. The therapeutic method of treatment may comprise gene or genome editing, or gene therapy.

Treating Pathogens, Like Bacterial, Fungal and Parasitic Pathogens

The present invention may also be applied to treat bacterial, fungal and parasitic pathogens. Most research efforts have focused on developing new antibiotics, which once developed, would nevertheless be subject to the same problems of drug resistance. The invention provides novel CRISPR-based alternatives which overcome those difficulties. Furthermore, unlike existing antibiotics, CRISPR-based treatments can be made pathogen specific, inducing bacterial cell death of a target pathogen while avoiding beneficial bacteria.

Jiang et al. (“RNA-guided editing of bacterial genomes using CRISPR-Cas systems,” Nature Biotechnology vol. 31, p. 233-9, March 2013) used a CRISPR-Cas9 system to mutate or kill S. pneumoniae and E. coli. The work, which introduced precise mutations into the genomes, relied on dual-RNA:Cas9-directed cleavage at the targeted genomic site to kill unmutated cells and circumvented the need for selectable markers or counter-selection systems. CRISPR systems have be used to reverse antibiotic resistance and eliminate the transfer of resistance between strains. Bickard et al. showed that Cas9, reprogrammed to target virulence genes, kills virulent, but not avirulent, S. aureus. Reprogramming the nuclease to target antibiotic resistance genes destroyed staphylococcal plasmids that harbor antibiotic resistance genes and immunized against the spread of plasmid-borne resistance genes. (see, Bikard et al., “Exploiting CRISPR-Cas nucleases to produce sequence-specific antimicrobials,” Nature Biotechnology vol. 32, 1146-1150, doi:10.1038/nbt.3043, published online 5 Oct. 2014.) Bikard showed that CRISPR-Cas9 antimicrobials function in vivo to kill S. aureus in a mouse skin colonization model. Similarly, Yosef et al used a CRISPR system to target genes encoding enzymes that confer resistance to β-lactam antibiotics (see Yousef et al., “Temperate and lytic bacteriophages programmed to sensitize and kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria,” Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, vol. 112, p. 7267-7272, doi: 10.1073/pnas.1500107112 published online May 18, 2015).

CRISPR systems can be used to edit genomes of parasites that are resistant to other genetic approaches. For example, a CRISPR-Cas9 system was shown to introduce double-stranded breaks into the in the Plasmodium yoelii genome (see, Zhang et al., “Efficient Editing of Malaria Parasite Genome Using the CRISPR/Cas9 System,” mBio. vol. 5, e01414-14, July-August 2014). Ghorbal et al. (“Genome editing in the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum using the CRISPR-Cas9 system,” Nature Biotechnology, vol. 32, p. 819-821, doi: 10.1038/nbt.2925, published online Jun. 1, 2014) modified the sequences of two genes, orc1 and kelch13, which have putative roles in gene silencing and emerging resistance to artemisinin, respectively. Parasites that were altered at the appropriate sites were recovered with very high efficiency, despite there being no direct selection for the modification, indicating that neutral or even deleterious mutations can be generated using this system. CRISPR-Cas9 is also used to modify the genomes of other pathogenic parasites, including Toxoplasma gondii (see Shen et al., “Efficient gene disruption in diverse strains of Toxoplasma gondii using CRISPR/CAS9,” mBio vol. 5:e01114-14, 2014; and Sidik et al., “Efficient Genome Engineering of Toxoplasma gondii Using CRISPR/Cas9,” PLoS One vol. 9, e100450, doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0100450, published online Jun. 27, 2014).

Vyas et al. (“A Candida albicans CRISPR system permits genetic engineering of essential genes and gene families,” Science Advances, vol. 1, e1500248, DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.1500248, Apr. 3, 2015) employed a CRISPR system to overcome long-standing obstacles to genetic engineering in C. albicans and efficiently mutate in a single experiment both copies of several different genes. In an organism where several mechanisms contribute to drug resistance, Vyas produced homozygous double mutants that no longer displayed the hyper-resistance to fluconazole or cycloheximide displayed by the parental clinical isolate Can90. Vyas also obtained homozygous loss-of-function mutations in essential genes of C. albicans by creating conditional alleles. Null alleles of DCR1, which is required for ribosomal RNA processing, are lethal at low temperature but viable at high temperature. Vyas used a repair template that introduced a nonsense mutation and isolated dcr1/dcr1 mutants that failed to grow at 16° C.

The CRISPR system of the present invention for use in P. falciparum by disrupting chromosomal loci. Ghorbal et al. (“Genome editing in the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum using the CRISPR-Cas9 system”, Nature Biotechnology, 32, 819-821 (2014), DOI: 10.1038/nbt.2925, Jun. 1, 2014) employed a CRISPR system to introduce specific gene knockouts and single-nucleotide substitutions in the malaria genome. To adapt the CRISPR-Cas9 system to P. falciparum, Ghorbal et al. generated expression vectors for under the control of plasmoidal regulatory elements in the pUF1-Cas9 episome that also carries the drug-selectable marker ydhodh, which gives resistance to DSM1, a P. falciparum dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (PfDHODH) inhibitor and for transcription of the sgRNA, used P. falciparum U6 small nuclear (sn)RNA regulatory elements placing the guide RNA and the donor DNA template for homologous recombination repair on the same plasmid, pL7. See also, Zhang C. et al. (“Efficient editing of malaria parasite genome using the CRISPR/Cas9 system”, MBio, 2014 Jul. 1; 5(4):E01414-14, doi: 10.1128/MbIO.01414-14) and Wagner et al. (“Efficient CRISPR-Cas9-mediated genome editing in Plasmodium falciparum, Nature Methods 11, 915-918 (2014), DOI: 10.1038/nmeth.3063).

Treating Pathogens, Like Viral Pathogens Such as HIV

Cas-mediated genome editing might be used to introduce protective mutations in somatic tissues to combat nongenetic or complex diseases. For example, NHEJ-mediated inactivation of the CCR5 receptor in lymphocytes (Lombardo et al., Nat Biotechnol. 2007 November; 25(11):1298-306) may be a viable strategy for circumventing HIV infection, whereas deletion of PCSK9 (Cohen et al., Nat Genet. 2005 February; 37(2):161-5) orangiopoietin (Musunuru et al., N Engl J Med. 2010 Dec. 2; 363(23):2220-7) may provide therapeutic effects against statin-resistant hypercholesterolemia or hyperlipidemia. Although these targets may be also addressed using siRNA-mediated protein knockdown, a unique advantage of NHEJ-mediated gene inactivation is the ability to achieve permanent therapeutic benefit without the need for continuing treatment. As with all gene therapies, it will of course be important to establish that each proposed therapeutic use has a favorable benefit-risk ratio.

Hydrodynamic delivery of plasmid DNA encoding Cas9 and guide RNA along with a repair template into the liver of an adult mouse model of tyrosinemia was shown to be able to correct the mutant Fah gene and rescue expression of the wild-type Fah protein in ˜1 out of 250 cells (Nat Biotechnol. 2014 June; 32(6):551-3). In addition, clinical trials successfully used ZF nucleases to combat HIV infection by ex vivo knockout of the CCR5 receptor. In all patients, HIV DNA levels decreased, and in one out of four patients, HIV RNA became undetectable (Tebas et al., N Engl J Med. 2014 Mar. 6; 370(10):901-10). Both of these results demonstrate the promise of programmable nucleases as a new therapeutic platform.

In another embodiment, self-inactivating lentiviral vectors with an siRNA targeting a common exon shared by HIV tat/rev, a nucleolar-localizing TAR decoy, and an anti-CCR5-specific hammerhead ribozyme (see, e.g., DiGiusto et al. (2010) Sci Transl Med 2:36ra43) may be used/and or adapted to the CRISPR-Cas9 system of the present invention. A minimum of 2.5×10⁶ CD34+ cells per kilogram patient weight may be collected and prestimulated for 16 to 20 hours in X-VIVO 15 medium (Lonza) containing 2 μmol/L-glutamine, stem cell factor (100 ng/ml), Flt-3 ligand (Flt-3L) (100 ng/ml), and thrombopoietin (10 ng/ml) (CellGenix) at a density of 2×10⁶ cells/ml. Prestimulated cells may be transduced with lentiviral at a multiplicity of infection of 5 for 16 to 24 hours in 75-cm² tissue culture flasks coated with fibronectin (25 mg/cm²) (RetroNectin, Takara Bio Inc.).

With the knowledge in the art and the teachings in this disclosure the skilled person can correct HSCs as to immunodeficiency condition such as HIV/AIDS comprising contacting an HSC with a CRISPR-Cas9 system that targets and knocks out CCR5. An guide RNA (and advantageously a dual guide approach, e.g., a pair of different guide RNAs; for instance, guide RNAs targeting of two clinically relevant genes, B2M and CCR5, in primary human CD4+ T cells and CD34+ hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs)) that targets and knocks out CCR5-and-Cas9 protein containing particle is contacted with HSCs. The so contacted cells can be administered; and optionally treated/expanded; cf. Cartier. See also Kiem, “Hematopoietic stem cell-based gene therapy for HIV disease,” Cell Stem Cell. Feb. 3, 2012; 10(2): 137-147; incorporated herein by reference along with the documents it cites; Mandal et al, “Efficient Ablation of Genes in Human Hematopoietic Stem and Effector Cells using CRISPR/Cas9,” Cell Stem Cell, Volume 15, Issue 5, p643-652, 6 Nov. 2014; incorporated herein by reference along with the documents it cites. Mention is also made of Ebina, “CRISPR/Cas9 system to suppress HIV-1 expression by editing HIV-1 integrated proviral DNA” SCIENTIFIC REPORTS |3:2510|DOI: 10.1038/srep02510, incorporated herein by reference along with the documents it cites, as another means for combatting HIV/AIDS using a CRISPR-Cas9 system.

The rationale for genome editing for HIV treatment originates from the observation that individuals homozygous for loss of function mutations in CCR5, a cellular co-receptor for the virus, are highly resistant to infection and otherwise healthy, suggesting that mimicking this mutation with genome editing could be a safe and effective therapeutic strategy [Liu, R., et al. Cell 86, 367-377 (1996)]. This idea was clinically validated when an HIV infected patient was given an allogeneic bone marrow transplant from a donor homozygous for a loss of function CCR5 mutation, resulting in undetectable levels of HIV and restoration of normal CD4 T-cell counts [Hutter, G., et al. The New England journal of medicine 360, 692-698 (2009)]. Although bone marrow transplantation is not a realistic treatment strategy for most HIV patients, due to cost and potential graft vs. host disease, HIV therapies that convert a patient's own T-cells into CCR5 are desirable.

Early studies using ZFNs and NHEJ to knockout CCR5 in humanized mouse models of HIV showed that transplantation of CCR5 edited CD4 T cells improved viral load and CD4 T-cell counts [Perez, E. E., et al. Nature biotechnology 26, 808-816 (2008)]. Importantly, these models also showed that HIV infection resulted in selection for CCR5 null cells, suggesting that editing confers a fitness advantage and potentially allowing a small number of edited cells to create a therapeutic effect.

As a result of this and other promising preclinical studies, genome editing therapy that knocks out CCR5 in patient T cells has now been tested in humans [Holt, N., et al. Nature biotechnology 28, 839-847 (2010); Li, L., et al. Molecular therapy: the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy 21, 1259-1269 (2013)]. In a recent phase I clinical trial, CD4+ T cells from patients with HIV were removed, edited with ZFNs designed to knockout the CCR5 gene, and autologously transplanted back into patients [Tebas, P., et al. The New England journal of medicine 370, 901-910 (2014)].

In another study (Mandal et al., Cell Stem Cell, Volume 15, Issue 5, p643-652, 6 Nov. 2014), CRISPR-Cas9 has targeted two clinical relevant genes, B2M and CCR5, in human CD4+ T cells and CD34+ hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). Use of single RNA guides led to highly efficient mutagenesis in HSPCs but not in T cells. A dual guide approach improved gene deletion efficacy in both cell types. HSPCs that had undergone genome editing with CRISPR-Cas9 retained multilineage potential. Predicted on- and off-target mutations were examined via target capture sequencing in HSPCs and low levels of off-target mutagenesis were observed at only one site. These results demonstrate that CRISPR-Cas9 can efficiently ablate genes in HSPCs with minimal off-target mutagenesis, which have broad applicability for hematopoietic cell-based therapy.

Wang et al. (PLoS One. 2014 Dec. 26; 9(12):e115987. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115987) silenced CCR5 via CRISPR associated protein 9 (Cas9) and single guided RNAs (guide RNAs) with lentiviral vectors expressing Cas9 and CCR5 guide RNAs. Wang et al. showed that a single round transduction of lentiviral vectors expressing Cas9 and CCR5 guide RNAs into HIV-1 susceptible human CD4+ cells yields high frequencies of CCR5 gene disruption. CCR5 gene-disrupted cells are not only resistant to R5-tropic HIV-1, including transmitted/founder (T/F) HIV-1 isolates, but also have selective advantage over CCR5 gene-undisrupted cells during R5-tropic HIV-1 infection. Genome mutations at potential off-target sites that are highly homologous to these CCR5 guide RNAs in stably transduced cells even at 84 days post transduction were not detected by a T7 endonuclease I assay.

Fine et al. (Sci Rep. 2015 Jul. 1; 5:10777. doi: 10.1038/srep10777) identified a two-cassette system expressing pieces of the S. pyogenes Cas9 (SpCas9) protein which splice together in cellula to form a functional protein capable of site-specific DNA cleavage. With specific CRISPR guide strands, Fine et al. demonstrated the efficacy of this system in cleaving the HBB and CCR5 genes in human HEK-293T cells as a single Cas9 and as a pair of Cas9 nickases. The trans-spliced SpCas9 (tsSpCas9) displayed ˜35% of the nuclease activity compared with the wild-type SpCas9 (wtSpCas9) at standard transfection doses, but had substantially decreased activity at lower dosing levels. The greatly reduced open reading frame length of the tsSpCas9 relative to wtSpCas9 potentially allows for more complex and longer genetic elements to be packaged into an AAV vector including tissue-specific promoters, multiplexed guide RNA expression, and effector domain fusions to SpCas9.

Li et al. (J Gen Virol. 2015 August; 96(8):2381-93. doi: 10.1099/vir.0.000139. Epub 2015 Apr. 8) demonstrated that CRISPR-Cas9 can efficiently mediate the editing of the CCR5 locus in cell lines, resulting in the knockout of CCR5 expression on the cell surface. Next-generation sequencing revealed that various mutations were introduced around the predicted cleavage site of CCR5. For each of the three most effective guide RNAs that were analyzed, no significant off-target effects were detected at the 15 top-scoring potential sites. By constructing chimeric Ad5F35 adenoviruses carrying CRISPR-Cas9 components, Li et al. efficiently transduced primary CD4+ T-lymphocytes and disrupted CCR5 expression, and the positively transduced cells were conferred with HIV-1 resistance.

Mention is made of WO 2015/148670 and through the teachings herein the invention comprehends methods and materials of this document applied in conjunction with the teachings herein. In an aspect of gene therapy, methods and compositions for editing of a target sequence related to or in connection with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) are comprehended. In a related aspect, the invention described herein comprehends prevention and treatment of HIV infection and AIDS, by introducing one or more mutations in the gene for C-C chemokine receptor type 5 (CCR5). The CCR5 gene is also known as CKR5, CCR-5, CD195, CKR-5, CCCKR5, CMKBR5, IDDM22, and CC-CKR-5. In a further aspect, the invention described herein comprehends provide for prevention or reduction of HIV infection and/or prevention or reduction of the ability for HIV to enter host cells, e.g., in subjects who are already infected. Exemplary host cells for HIV include, but are not limited to, CD4 cells, T cells, gut associated lymphatic tissue (GALT), macrophages, dendritic cells, myeloid precursor cell, and microglia. Viral entry into the host cells requires interaction of the viral glycoproteins gp41 and gp120 with both the CD4 receptor and a co-receptor, e.g., CCR5. If a co-receptor, e.g., CCR5, is not present on the surface of the host cells, the virus cannot bind and enter the host cells. The progress of the disease is thus impeded. By knocking out or knocking down CCR5 in the host cells, e.g., by introducing a protective mutation (such as a CCR5 delta 32 mutation), entry of the HIV virus into the host cells is prevented.

One of skill in the art may utilize the above studies of, for example, Holt, N., et al. Nature biotechnology 28, 839-847 (2010), Li, L., et al. Molecular therapy: the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy 21, 1259-1269 (2013), Mandal et al., Cell Stem Cell, Volume 15, Issue 5, p643-652, 6 Nov. 2014, Wang et al. (PLoS One. 2014 Dec. 26; 9(12):e115987. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115987), Fine et al. (Sci Rep. 2015 Jul. 1; 5:10777. doi: 10.1038/srep10777) and Li et al. (J Gen Virol. 2015 August; 96(8):2381-93. doi: 10.1099/vir.0.000139. Epub 2015 Apr. 8) for targeting CCR5 with the CRISPR Cas9 system of the present invention.

Treating Pathogens, Like Viral Pathogens, Such as HBV

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is prevalent, deadly, and seldom cured due to the persistence of viral episomal DNA (cccDNA) in infected cells. Ramanan et al. (Ramanan V, Shlomai A, Cox D B, Schwartz R E, Michailidis E, Bhatta A, Scott D A, Zhang F, Rice C M, Bhatia S N, Sci Rep. 2015 June 2; 5:10833. doi: 10.1038/srep10833, published online 2 Jun. 2015.) showed that the CRISPR/Cas9 system can specifically target and cleave conserved regions in the HBV genome, resulting in robust suppression of viral gene expression and replication. Upon sustained expression of Cas9 and appropriately chosen guide RNAs, they demonstrated cleavage of cccDNA by Cas9 and a dramatic reduction in both cccDNA and other parameters of viral gene expression and replication. Thus, they showed that directly targeting viral episomal DNA is a novel therapeutic approach to control the virus and possibly cure patients. This is also described in WO2015089465 A1, in the name of The Broad Institute et al., the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference

The present invention may also be applied to treat hepatitis B virus (HBV). However, the CRISPR Cas system must be adapted to avoid the shortcomings of RNAi, such as the risk of oversatring endogenous small RNA pathways, by for example, optimizing dose and sequence (see, e.g., Grimm et al., Nature vol. 441, 26 May 2006). For example, low doses, such as about 1-10×10¹⁴ particles per human are contemplated. In another embodiment, the CRISPR Cas system directed against HBV may be administered in liposomes, such as a stable nucleic-acid-lipid particle (SNALP) (see, e.g., Morrissey et al., Nature Biotechnology, Vol. 23, No. 8, August 2005). Daily intravenous injections of about 1, 3 or 5 mg/kg/day of CRISPR Cas targeted to HBV RNA in a SNALP are contemplated. The daily treatment may be over about three days and then weekly for about five weeks. In another embodiment, the system of Chen et al. (Gene Therapy (2007) 14, 11-19) may be used/and or adapted for the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention. Chen et al. use a double-stranded adenoassociated virus 8-pseudotyped vector (dsAAV2/8) to deliver shRNA. A single administration of dsAAV2/8 vector (1×10¹² vector genomes per mouse), carrying HBV-specific shRNA, effectively suppressed the steady level of HBV protein, mRNA and replicative DNA in liver of HBV transgenic mice, leading to up to 2-3 log₁₀ decrease in HBV load in the circulation. Significant HBV suppression sustained for at least 120 days after vector administration. The therapeutic effect of shRNA was target sequence dependent and did not involve activation of interferon. For the present invention, a CRISPR Cas system directed to HBV may be cloned into an AAV vector, such as a dsAAV2/8 vector and administered to a human, for example, at a dosage of about 1×10¹⁵ vector genomes to about 1×10¹⁶ vector genomes per human. In another embodiment, the method of Wooddell et al. (Molecular Therapy vol. 21 no. 5, 973-985 May 2013) may be used/and or adapted to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention. Woodell et al. show that simple coinjection of a hepatocyte-targeted, N-acetylgalactosamine-conjugated melittin-like peptide (NAG-MLP) with a liver-tropic cholesterol-conjugated siRNA (chol-siRNA) targeting coagulation factor VII (F7) results in efficient F7 knockdown in mice and nonhuman primates without changes in clinical chemistry or induction of cytokines. Using transient and transgenic mouse models of HBV infection, Wooddell et al. show that a single coinjection of NAG-MLP with potent chol-siRNAs targeting conserved HBV sequences resulted in multilog repression of viral RNA, proteins, and viral DNA with long duration of effect. Intravenous coinjections, for example, of about 6 mg/kg of NAG-MLP and 6 mg/kg of HBV specific CRISPR Cas may be envisioned for the present invention. In the alternative, about 3 mg/kg of NAG-MLP and 3 mg/kg of HBV specific CRISPR Cas may be delivered on day one, followed by administration of about 2-3 mg/kg of NAG-MLP and 2-3 mg/kg of HBV specific CRISPR Cas two weeks later.

Lin et al. (Mol Ther Nucleic Acids. 2014 Aug. 19; 3:e186. doi: 10.1038/mtna.2014.38) designed eight gRNAs against HBV of genotype A. With the HBV-specific gRNAs, the CRISPR-Cas9 system significantly reduced the production of HBV core and surface proteins in Huh-7 cells transfected with an HBV-expression vector. Among eight screened gRNAs, two effective ones were identified. One gRNA targeting the conserved HBV sequence acted against different genotypes. Using a hydrodynamics-HBV persistence mouse model, Lin et al. further demonstrated that this system could cleave the intrahepatic HBV genome-containing plasmid and facilitate its clearance in vivo, resulting in reduction of serum surface antigen levels. These data suggest that the CRISPR-Cas9 system could disrupt the HBV-expressing templates both in vitro and in vivo, indicating its potential in eradicating persistent HBV infection.

Dong et al. (Antiviral Res. 2015 June; 118:110-7. doi: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2015.03.015. Epub 2015 Apr. 3) used the CRISPR-Cas9 system to target the HBV genome and efficiently inhibit HBV infection. Dong et al. synthesized four single-guide RNAs (guide RNAs) targeting the conserved regions of HBV. The expression of these guide RNAS with Cas9 reduced the viral production in Huh7 cells as well as in HBV-replication cell HepG2.2.15. Dong et al. further demonstrated that CRISPR-Cas9 direct cleavage and cleavage-mediated mutagenesis occurred in HBV cccDNA of transfected cells. In the mouse model carrying HBV cccDNA, injection of guide RNA-Cas9 plasmids via rapid tail vein resulted in the low level of cccDNA and HBV protein.

Liu et al. (J Gen Virol. 2015 August; 96(8):2252-61. doi: 10.1099/vir.0.000159. Epub 2015 Apr. 22) designed eight guide RNAs (gRNAs) that targeted the conserved regions of different HBV genotypes, which could significantly inhibit HBV replication both in vitro and in vivo to investigate the possibility of using the CRISPR-Cas9 system to disrupt the HBV DNA templates. The HBV-specific gRNA/Cas9 system could inhibit the replication of HBV of different genotypes in cells, and the viral DNA was significantly reduced by a single gRNA/Cas9 system and cleared by a combination of different gRNA/Cas9 systems.

Wang et al. (World J Gastroenterol. 2015 Aug. 28; 21(32):9554-65. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i32.9554) designed 15 gRNAs against HBV of genotypes A-D. Eleven combinations of two above gRNAs (dual-gRNAs) covering the regulatory region of HBV were chosen. The efficiency of each gRNA and 11 dual-gRNAs on the suppression of HBV (genotypes A-D) replication was examined by the measurement of HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) or e antigen (HBeAg) in the culture supernatant. The destruction of HBV-expressing vector was examined in HuH7 cells co-transfected with dual-gRNAs and HBV-expressing vector using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing method, and the destruction of cccDNA was examined in HepAD38 cells using KCl precipitation, plasmid-safe ATP-dependent DNase (PSAD) digestion, rolling circle amplification and quantitative PCR combined method. The cytotoxicity of these gRNAs was assessed by a mitochondrial tetrazolium assay. All of gRNAs could significantly reduce HBsAg or HBeAg production in the culture supernatant, which was dependent on the region in which gRNA against. All of dual gRNAs could efficiently suppress HBsAg and/or HBeAg production for HBV of genotypes A-D, and the efficacy of dual gRNAs in suppressing HBsAg and/or HBeAg production was significantly increased when compared to the single gRNA used alone. Furthermore, by PCR direct sequencing Applicants confirmed that these dual gRNAs could specifically destroy HBV expressing template by removing the fragment between the cleavage sites of the two used gRNAs. Most importantly, gRNA-5 and gRNA-12 combination not only could efficiently suppressing HBsAg and/or HBeAg production, but also destroy the cccDNA reservoirs in HepAD38 cells.

Karimova et al. (Sci Rep. 2015 September 3; 5:13734. doi: 10.1038/srep13734) identified cross-genotype conserved HBV sequences in the S and X region of the HBV genome that were targeted for specific and effective cleavage by a Cas9 nickase. This approach disrupted not only episomal cccDNA and chromosomally integrated HBV target sites in reporter cell lines, but also HBV replication in chronically and de novo infected hepatoma cell lines.

One of skill in the art may utilize the above studies of, for example, Lin et al. (Mol Ther Nucleic Acids. 2014 Aug. 19; 3:e186. doi: 10.1038/mtna.2014.38), Dong et al. (Antiviral Res. 2015 June; 118:110-7. doi: 10.1016/kantiviral.2015.03.015. Epub 2015 Apr. 3), Liu et al. (J Gen Virol. 2015 August; 96(8):2252-61. doi: 10.1099/vir.0.000159. Epub 2015 Apr. 22), Wang et al. (World J Gastroenterol. 2015 Aug. 28; 21(32):9554-65. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i32.9554) and Karimova et al. (Sci Rep. 2015 September 3; 5:13734. doi: 10.1038/srep13734) for targeting HBV with the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention.

Patient-Specific Screening Methods

A CRISPR-Cas system that targets nucleotide, e.g., trinucleotide repeats can be used to screen patients or patent samples for the presence of such repeats. The repeats can be the target of the RNA of the CRISPR-Cas system, and if there is binding thereto by the CRISPR-Cas system, that binding can be detected, to thereby indicate that such a repeat is present. Thus, a CRISPR-Cas system can be used to screen patients or patient samples for the presence of the repeat. The patient can then be administered suitable compound(s) to address the condition; or, can be administered a CRISPR-Cas system to bind to and cause insertion, deletion or mutation and alleviate the condition.

Treating Diseases with Genetic or Epigenetic Aspects

The CRISPR-Cas9 systems of the present invention can be used to correct genetic mutations that were previously attempted with limited success using TALEN and ZFN and have been identified as potential targets for Cas9 systems, including as in published applications of Editas Medicine describing methods to use Cas9 systems to target loci to therapeutically address diseases with gene therapy, including, WO 2015/048577 CRISPR-RELATED METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS of Gluckmann et al.; WO 2015/070083 CRISPR-RELATED METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS WITH GOVERNING gRNAS of Glucksmann et al.

Mention is made of WO 2015/134812 CRISPR/CAS-RELATED METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR TREATING USHER SYNDROME AND RETINITIS PIGMENTOSA of Maeder et al. Through the teachings herein the invention comprehends methods and materials of these documents applied in conjunction with the teachings herein. In an aspect of ocular and auditory gene therapy, methods and compositions for treating Usher Syndrome and Retinis-Pigmentosa may be adapted to the CRISPR-Cas system of the present invention (see, e.g., WO 2015/134812). In an embodiment, the WO 2015/134812 involves a treatment or delaying the onset or progression of Usher Syndrome type IIA (USH2A, USH11A) and retinitis pigmentosa 39 (RP39) by gene editing, e.g., using CRISPR-Cas9 mediated methods to correct the guanine deletion at position 2299 in the USH2A gene (e.g., replace the deleted guanine residue at position 2299 in the USH2A gene). In a related aspect, a mutation is targeted by cleaving with either one or more nuclease, one or more nickase, or a combination thereof, e.g., to induce HDR with a donor template that corrects the point mutation (e.g., the single nucleotide, e.g., guanine, deletion). The alteration or correction of the mutant USH2A gene can be mediated by any mechanism. Exemplary mechanisms that can be associated with the alteration (e.g., correction) of the mutant HSH2A gene include, but are not limited to, non-homologous end joining, microhomology-mediated end joining (MMEJ), homology-directed repair (e.g., endogenous donor template mediated), SDSA (synthesis dependent strand annealing), single-strand annealing or single strand invasion. In an embodiment, the method used for treating Usher Syndrome and Retinis-Pigmentosa can include acquiring knowledge of the mutation carried by the subject, e.g., by sequencing the appropriate portion of the USH2A gene.

In some embodiments, the treatment, prophylaxis or diagnosis of Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG) is provided. The target is preferably the MYOC gene. This is described in WO 2015/153780, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

Mention is also made of WO 2015/138510 and through the teachings herein the invention (using a CRISPR-Cas9 system) comprehends providing a treatment or delaying the onset or progression of Leber's Congenital Amaurosis 10 (LCA 10). LCA 10 is caused by a mutation in the CEP290 gene, e.g., a c.2991+1655, adenine to guanine mutation in the CEP290 gene which gives rise to a cryptic splice site in intron 26. This is a mutation at nucleotide 1655 of intron 26 of CEP290, e.g., an A to G mutation. CEP290 is also known as: CT87; MKS4; POC3; rd16; BBS14; JBTS5; LCAJO; NPHP6; SLSN6; and 3H11Ag (see, e.g., WO 2015/138510). In an aspect of gene therapy, the invention involves introducing one or more breaks near the site of the LCA target position (e.g., c.2991+1655; A to G) in at least one allele of the CEP290 gene. Altering the LCA10 target position refers to (1) break-induced introduction of an indel (also referred to herein as NHEJ-mediated introduction of an indel) in close proximity to or including a LCA10 target position (e.g., c.2991+1655A to G), or (2) break-induced deletion (also referred to herein as NHEJ-mediated deletion) of genomic sequence including the mutation at a LCA10 target position (e.g., c.2991+1655A to G). Both approaches give rise to the loss or destruction of the cryptic splice site resulting from the mutation at the LCA 10 target position.

In an aspect, the invention (using a CRISPR-Cas9 system) comprehends providing a treatment or delaying the onset or progression of Leber's Congenital Amaurosis 10 (LCA 10). LCA 10 is caused by a mutation in the CEP290 gene, e.g., a c.2991+1655, adenine to guanine mutation in the CEP290 gene which gives rise to a cryptic splice site in intron 26. This is a mutation at nucleotide 1655 of intron 26 of CEP290, e.g., an A to G mutation. CEP290 is also known as: CT87; MKS4; POC3; rd16; BBS14; JBTS5; LCAJO; NPHP6; SLSN6; and 3H11Ag (see, e.g., WO 2015/138510). In an aspect of gene therapy, the invention involves introducing one or more breaks near the site of the LCA target position (e.g., c.2991+1655; A to G) in at least one allele of the CEP290 gene. Altering the LCA10 target position refers to (1) break-induced introduction of an indel (also referred to herein as NHEJ-mediated introduction of an indel) in close proximity to or including a LCA10 target position (e.g., c.2991+1655A to G), or (2) break-induced deletion (also referred to herein as NHEJ-mediated deletion) of genomic sequence including the mutation at a LCA10 target position (e.g., c.2991+1655A to G). Both approaches give rise to the loss or destruction of the cryptic splice site resulting from the mutation at the LCA 10 target position.

Researchers are contemplating whether gene therapies could be employed to treat a wide range of diseases. The CRISPR systems of the present invention based on Cas9 effector protein are envisioned for such therapeutic uses, including, but noted limited to further exemplified targeted areas and with delivery methods as below. Some examples of conditions or diseases that might be usefully treated using the present system are included in the examples of genes and references included herein and are currently associated with those conditions are also provided there. The genes and conditions exemplified are not exhaustive.

Treating Diseases of the Circulatory System

The present invention also contemplates delivering the CRISPR-Cas9 system, specifically the novel CRISPR effector protein systems described herein, to the blood or hematopoetic stem cells. The plasma exosomes of Wahlgren et al. (Nucleic Acids Research, 2012, Vol. 40, No. 17 e130) were previously described and may be utilized to deliver the CRISPR Cas9 system to the blood. The nucleic acid-targeting system of the present invention is also contemplated to treat hemoglobinopathies, such as thalassemias and sickle cell disease. See, e.g., International Patent Publication No. WO 2013/126794 for potential targets that may be targeted by the CRISPR Cas9 system of the present invention.

Drakopoulou, “Review Article, The Ongoing Challenge of Hematopoietic Stem Cell-Based Gene Therapy for β-Thalassemia,” Stem Cells International, Volume 2011, Article ID 987980, 10 pages, doi:10.4061/2011/987980, incorporated herein by reference along with the documents it cites, as if set out in full, discuss modifying HSCs using a lentivirus that delivers a gene for β-globin or γ-globin. In contrast to using lentivirus, with the knowledge in the art and the teachings in this disclosure, the skilled person can correct HSCs as to ß-Thalassemia using a CRISPR-Cas9 system that targets and corrects the mutation (e.g., with a suitable HDR template that delivers a coding sequence for β-globin or γ-globin, advantageously non-sickling β-globin or γ-globin); specifically, the guide RNA can target mutation that give rise to β-Thalassemia, and the HDR can provide coding for proper expression of β-globin or γ-globin. A guide RNA that targets the mutation-and-Cas9 protein containing particle is contacted with HSCs carrying the mutation. The particle also can contain a suitable HDR template to correct the mutation for proper expression of β-globin or γ-globin; or the HSC can be contacted with a second particle or a vector that contains or delivers the HDR template. The so contacted cells can be administered; and optionally treated/expanded; cf. Cartier. In this regard mention is made of: Cavazzana, “Outcomes of Gene Therapy for β-Thalassemia Major via Transplantation of Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cells Transduced Ex Vivo with a Lentiviral β^(A-T87Q)-Globin Vector.” tif2014.org/ab stractFiles/Jean%20Antoine%20Ribeil_Abstract.pdf; Cavazzana-Calvo, “Transfusion independence and HMGA2 activation after gene therapy of human β-thalassaemia”, Nature 467, 318-322 (16 Sep. 2010) doi:10.1038/nature09328; Nienhuis, “Development of Gene Therapy for Thalassemia, Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Medicine, doi: 10.1101/cshperspect.a011833 (2012), LentiGlobin BB305, a lentiviral vector containing an engineered β-globin-globin gene (β^(A-T87Q)); and Xie et al., “Seamless gene correction of β-thalassaemia mutations in patient-specific iPSCs using CRISPR/Cas9 and piggyback” Genome Research gr.173427.114 (2014) http://www genome.org/cgi/doi/10.1101/gr.173427.114 (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press); that is the subject of Cavazzana work involving human β-thalassaemia and the subject of the Xie work, are all incorporated herein by reference, together with all documents cited therein or associated therewith. In the instant invention, the HDR template can provide for the HSC to express an engineered β-globin gene (e.g., β^(A-T87Q)), or β-globin as in Xie.

Xu et al. (Sci Rep. 2015 Jul. 9; 5:12065. doi: 10.1038/srep12065) have designed TALENs and CRISPR-Cas9 to directly target the intron2 mutation site IVS2-654 in the globin gene. Xu et al. observed different frequencies of double-strand breaks (DSBs) at IVS2-654 loci using TALENs and CRISPR-Cas9, and TALENs mediated a higher homologous gene targeting efficiency compared to CRISPR-Cas9 when combined with the piggyBac transposon donor. In addition, more obvious off-target events were observed for CRISPR-Cas9 compared to TALENs. Finally, TALENs-corrected iPSC clones were selected for erythroblast differentiation using the OP9 co-culture system and detected relatively higher transcription of HBB than the uncorrected cells.

Song et al. (Stem Cells Dev. 2015 May 1; 24(9):1053-65. doi: 10.1089/scd.2014.0347. Epub 2015 Feb. 5) used CRISPR/Cas9 to correct β-Thal iPSCs; gene-corrected cells exhibit normal karyotypes and full pluripotency as human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) showed no off-targeting effects. Then, Song et al. evaluated the differentiation efficiency of the gene-corrected β-Thal iPSCs. Song et al. found that during hematopoietic differentiation, gene-corrected β-Thal iPSCs showed an increased embryoid body ratio and various hematopoietic progenitor cell percentages. More importantly, the gene-corrected β-Thal iPSC lines restored HBB expression and reduced reactive oxygen species production compared with the uncorrected group. Song et al.'s study suggested that hematopoietic differentiation efficiency of β-Thal iPSCs was greatly improved once corrected by the CRISPR-Cas9 system. Similar methods may be performed utilizing the CRISPR-Cas9 systems described herein, e.g. systems comprising Cas9 effector proteins.

Mention is made of WO 2015/148860, through the teachings herein the invention comprehends methods and materials of these documents applied in conjunction with the teachings herein. In an aspect of blood-related disease gene therapy, methods and compositions for treating beta thalassemia may be adapted to the CRISPR-Cas system of the present invention (see, e.g., WO 2015/148860). In an embodiment, WO 2015/148860 involves the treatment or prevention of beta thalassemia, or its symptoms, e.g., by altering the gene for B-cell CLL/lymphoma 11A (BCL11A). The BCL11A gene is also known as B-cell CLL/lymphoma 11A, BCL11A-L, BCL11A-S, BCL11AXL, CTIP 1, HBFQTL5 and ZNF. BCL11A encodes a zinc-finger protein that is involved in the regulation of globin gene expression. By altering the BCL11A gene (e.g., one or both alleles of the BCL11A gene), the levels of gamma globin can be increased. Gamma globin can replace beta globin in the hemoglobin complex and effectively carry oxygen to tissues, thereby ameliorating beta thalassemia disease phenotypes.

Sickle cell anemia is an autosomal recessive genetic disease in which red blood cells become sickle-shaped. It is caused by a single base substitution in the β-globin gene, which is located on the short arm of chromosome 11. As a result, valine is produced instead of glutamic acid causing the production of sickle hemoglobin (HbS). This results in the formation of a distorted shape of the erythrocytes. Due to this abnormal shape, small blood vessels can be blocked, causing serious damage to the bone, spleen and skin tissues. This may lead to episodes of pain, frequent infections, hand-foot syndrome or even multiple organ failure. The distorted erythrocytes are also more susceptible to hemolysis, which leads to serious anemia. As in the case of β-thalassaemia, sickle cell anemia can be corrected by modifying HSCs with the CRISPR-Cas9 system. The system allows the specific editing of the cell's genome by cutting its DNA and then letting it repair itself. The Cas9 protein is inserted and directed by a RNA guide to the mutated point and then it cuts the DNA at that point. Simultaneously, a healthy version of the sequence is inserted. This sequence is used by the cell's own repair system to fix the induced cut. In this way, the CRISPR-Cas9 allows the correction of the mutation in the previously obtained stem cells. With the knowledge in the art and the teachings in this disclosure, the skilled person can correct HSCs as to sickle cell anemia using a CRISPR-Cas9 system that targets and corrects the mutation (e.g., with a suitable HDR template that delivers a coding sequence for β-globin, advantageously non-sickling β-globin); specifically, the guide RNA can target mutation that give rise to sickle cell anemia, and the HDR can provide coding for proper expression of β-globin. An guide RNA that targets the mutation-and-Cas9 protein containing particle is contacted with HSCs carrying the mutation. The particle also can contain a suitable HDR template to correct the mutation for proper expression of β-globin; or the HSC can be contacted with a second particle or a vector that contains or delivers the HDR template. The so contacted cells can be administered; and optionally treated/expanded; cf. Cartier. The HDR template can provide for the HSC to express an engineered β-globin gene (e.g., βA-T87Q), or β-globin as in Xie.

Mention is also made of WO 2015/148863 and through the teachings herein the invention comprehends methods and materials of these documents which may be adapted to the CRISPR-Cas system of the present invention. In an aspect of treating and preventing sickle cell disease, which is an inherited hematologic disease, WO 2015/148863 comprehends altering the BCL11A gene. By altering the BCL11A gene (e.g., one or both alleles of the BCL11A gene), the levels of gamma globin can be increased. Gamma globin can replace beta globin in the hemoglobin complex and effectively carry oxygen to tissues, thereby ameliorating sickle cell disease phenotypes.

Williams, “Broadening the Indications for Hematopoietic Stem Cell Genetic Therapies,” Cell Stem Cell 13:263-264 (2013), incorporated herein by reference along with the documents it cites, as if set out in full, report lentivirus-mediated gene transfer into HSC/P cells from patients with the lysosomal storage disease metachromatic leukodystrophy disease (MLD), a genetic disease caused by deficiency of arylsulfatase A (ARSA), resulting in nerve demyelination; and lentivirus-mediated gene transfer into HSCs of patients with Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS) (patients with defective WAS protein, an effector of the small GTPase CDC42 that regulates cytoskeletal function in blood cell lineages and thus suffer from immune deficiency with recurrent infections, autoimmune symptoms, and thrombocytopenia with abnormally small and dysfunctional platelets leading to excessive bleeding and an increased risk of leukemia and lymphoma). In contrast to using lentivirus, with the knowledge in the art and the teachings in this disclosure, the skilled person can correct HSCs as to MLD (deficiency of arylsulfatase A (ARSA)) using a CRISPR-Cas9 system that targets and corrects the mutation (deficiency of arylsulfatase A (ARSA)) (e.g., with a suitable HDR template that delivers a coding sequence for ARSA); specifically, the guide RNA can target mutation that gives rise to MLD (deficient ARSA), and the HDR can provide coding for proper expression of ARSA. A guide RNA that targets the mutation-and-Cas9 protein containing particle is contacted with HSCs carrying the mutation. The particle also can contain a suitable HDR template to correct the mutation for proper expression of ARSA; or the HSC can be contacted with a second particle or a vector that contains or delivers the HDR template. The so contacted cells can be administered; and optionally treated/expanded; cf. Cartier. In contrast to using lentivirus, with the knowledge in the art and the teachings in this disclosure, the skilled person can correct HSCs as to WAS using a CRISPR-Cas9 system that targets and corrects the mutation (deficiency of WAS protein) (e.g., with a suitable HDR template that delivers a coding sequence for WAS protein); specifically, the guide RNA can target mutation that gives rise to WAS (deficient WAS protein), and the HDR can provide coding for proper expression of WAS protein. A guide RNA that targets the mutation-and-Cas9 protein containing particle is contacted with HSCs carrying the mutation. The particle also can contain a suitable HDR template to correct the mutation for proper expression of WAS protein; or the HSC can be contacted with a second particle or a vector that contains or delivers the HDR template. The so contacted cells can be administered; and optionally treated/expanded; cf. Cartier.

In an aspect of the invention, methods and compositions which involve editing a target nucleic acid sequence, or modulating expression of a target nucleic acid sequence, and applications thereof in connection with cancer immunotherapy are comprehended by adapting the CRISPR-Cas system of the present invention. Reference is made to the application of gene therapy in WO 2015/161276 which involves methods and compositions which can be used to affect T-cell proliferation, survival and/or function by altering one or more T-cell expressed genes, e.g., one or more of FAS, BID, CTLA4, PDCD1, CBLB, PTPN6, TRAC and/or TRBC genes. In a related aspect, T-cell proliferation can be affected by altering one or more T-cell expressed genes, e.g., the CBLB and/or PTPN6 gene, FAS and/or BID gene, CTLA4 and/or PDCDI and/or TRAC and/or TRBC gene.

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)19 T-cells exhibit anti-leukemic effects in patient malignancies. However, leukemia patients often do not have enough T-cells to collect, meaning that treatment must involve modified T cells from donors. Accordingly, there is interest in establishing a bank of donor T-cells. Qasim et al. (“First Clinical Application of Talen Engineered Universal CAR19 T Cells in B-ALL” ASH 57th Annual Meeting and Exposition, Dec. 5-8, 2015, Abstract 2046 (https://ash.confex.com/ash/2015/webprogram/Paper81653.html published online November 2015) discusses modifying CAR19 T cells to eliminate the risk of graft-versus-host disease through the disruption of T-cell receptor expression and CD52 targeting. Furthermore, CD52 cells were targeted such that they became insensitive to Alemtuzumab, and thus allowed Alemtuzumab to prevent host-mediated rejection of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) mismatched CAR19 T-cells. Investigators used third generation self-inactivating lentiviral vector encoding a 4g7 CAR19 (CD19 scFv-4-1BB-CD3ζ) linked to RQR8, then electroporated cells with two pairs of TALEN mRNA for multiplex targeting for both the T-cell receptor (TCR) alpha constant chain locus and the CD52 gene locus. Cells which were still expressing TCR following ex vivo expansion were depleted using CliniMacs α/β TCR depletion, yielding a T-cell product (UCART19) with <1% TCR expression, 85% of which expressed CAR19, and 64% becoming CD52 negative. The modified CAR19 T cells were administered to treat a patient's relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The teachings provided herein provide effective methods for modifying cells, for example to remove or modulate CD52 or other targets, thus can be used in conjunction with modification of administration of T cells or other cells to patients to treat malignancies.

Watts, “Hematopoietic Stem Cell Expansion and Gene Therapy” Cytotherapy 13(10):1164-1171. doi:10.3109/14653249.2011.620748 (2011), incorporated herein by reference along with the documents it cites, as if set out in full, discusses hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) gene therapy, e.g., virus-mediated HSC gene therapy, as an highly attractive treatment option for many disorders including hematologic conditions, immunodeficiencies including HIV/AIDS, and other genetic disorders like lysosomal storage diseases, including SCID-X1, ADA-SCID, β-thalassemia, X-linked CGD, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, Fanconi anemia, adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD), and metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD).

US Patent Publication Nos. 20110225664, 20110091441, 20100229252, 20090271881 and 20090222937 assigned to Cellectis, relates to CREI variants, wherein at least one of the two I-CreI monomers has at least two substitutions, one in each of the two functional subdomains of the LAGLIDADG core domain (SEQ ID NO: 55) situated respectively from positions 26 to 40 and 44 to 77 of I-CreI, said variant being able to cleave a DNA target sequence from the human interleukin-2 receptor gamma chain (IL2RG) gene also named common cytokine receptor gamma chain gene or gamma C gene. The target sequences identified in US Patent Publication Nos. 20110225664, 20110091441, 20100229252, 20090271881 and 20090222937 may be utilized for the nucleic acid-targeting system of the present invention.

Severe Combined Immune Deficiency (SCID) results from a defect in lymphocytes T maturation, always associated with a functional defect in lymphocytes B (Cavazzana-Calvo et al., Annu. Rev. Med., 2005, 56, 585-602; Fischer et al., Immunol. Rev., 2005, 203, 98-109). Overall incidence is estimated to 1 in 75 000 births. Patients with untreated SCID are subject to multiple opportunist micro-organism infections, and do generally not live beyond one year. SCID can be treated by allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transfer, from a familial donor. Histocompatibility with the donor can vary widely. In the case of Adenosine Deaminase (ADA) deficiency, one of the SCID forms, patients can be treated by injection of recombinant Adenosine Deaminase enzyme.

Since the ADA gene has been shown to be mutated in SCID patients (Giblett et al., Lancet, 1972, 2, 1067-1069), several other genes involved in SCID have been identified (Cavazzana-Calvo et al., Annu. Rev. Med., 2005, 56, 585-602; Fischer et al., Immunol. Rev., 2005, 203, 98-109). There are four major causes for SCID: (i) the most frequent form of SCID, SCID-X1 (X-linked SCID or X-SCID), is caused by mutation in the IL2RG gene, resulting in the absence of mature T lymphocytes and NK cells. IL2RG encodes the gamma C protein (Noguchi, et al., Cell, 1993, 73, 147-157), a common component of at least five interleukin receptor complexes. These receptors activate several targets through the JAK3 kinase (Macchi et al., Nature, 1995, 377, 65-68), which inactivation results in the same syndrome as gamma C inactivation; (ii) mutation in the ADA gene results in a defect in purine metabolism that is lethal for lymphocyte precursors, which in turn results in the quasi absence of B, T and NK cells; (iii) V(D)J recombination is an essential step in the maturation of immunoglobulins and T lymphocytes receptors (TCRs). Mutations in Recombination Activating Gene 1 and 2 (RAG1 and RAG2) and Artemis, three genes involved in this process, result in the absence of mature T and B lymphocytes; and (iv) Mutations in other genes such as CD45, involved in T cell specific signaling have also been reported, although they represent a minority of cases (Cavazzana-Calvo et al., Annu. Rev. Med., 2005, 56, 585-602; Fischer et al., Immunol. Rev., 2005, 203, 98-109). Since when their genetic bases have been identified, the different SCID forms have become a paradigm for gene therapy approaches (Fischer et al., Immunol. Rev., 2005, 203, 98-109) for two major reasons. First, as in all blood diseases, an ex vivo treatment can be envisioned. Hematopoietic Stem Cells (HSCs) can be recovered from bone marrow, and keep their pluripotent properties for a few cell divisions. Therefore, they can be treated in vitro, and then reinjected into the patient, where they repopulate the bone marrow. Second, since the maturation of lymphocytes is impaired in SCID patients, corrected cells have a selective advantage. Therefore, a small number of corrected cells can restore a functional immune system. This hypothesis was validated several times by (i) the partial restoration of immune functions associated with the reversion of mutations in SCID patients (Hirschhorn et al., Nat. Genet., 1996, 13, 290-295; Stephan et al., N. Engl. J. Med., 1996, 335, 1563-1567; Bousso et al., Proc. Natl., Acad. Sci. USA, 2000, 97, 274-278; Wada et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 2001, 98, 8697-8702; Nishikomori et al., Blood, 2004, 103, 4565-4572), (ii) the correction of SCID-X1 deficiencies in vitro in hematopoietic cells (Candotti et al., Blood, 1996, 87, 3097-3102; Cavazzana-Calvo et al., Blood, 1996, Blood, 88, 3901-3909; Taylor et al., Blood, 1996, 87, 3103-3107; Hacein-Bey et al., Blood, 1998, 92, 4090-4097), (iii) the correction of SCID-X1 (Soudais et al., Blood, 2000, 95, 3071-3077; Tsai et al., Blood, 2002, 100, 72-79), JAK-3 (Bunting et al., Nat. Med., 1998, 4, 58-64; Bunting et al., Hum. Gene Ther., 2000, 11, 2353-2364) and RAG2 (Yates et al., Blood, 2002, 100, 3942-3949) deficiencies in vivo in animal models and (iv) by the result of gene therapy clinical trials (Cavazzana-Calvo et al., Science, 2000, 288, 669-672; Aiuti et al., Nat. Med., 2002; 8, 423-425; Gaspar et al., Lancet, 2004, 364, 2181-2187).

US Patent Publication No. 20110182867 assigned to the Children's Medical Center Corporation and the President and Fellows of Harvard College relates to methods and uses of modulating fetal hemoglobin expression (HbF) in a hematopoietic progenitor cells via inhibitors of BCL11A expression or activity, such as RNAi and antibodies. The targets disclosed in US Patent Publication No. 20110182867, such as BCL11A, may be targeted by the CRISPR Cas9 system of the present invention for modulating fetal hemoglobin expression. See also Bauer et al. (Science 11 Oct. 2013: Vol. 342 no. 6155 pp. 253-257) and Xu et al. (Science 18 Nov. 2011: Vol. 334 no. 6058 pp. 993-996) for additional BCL11A targets.

With the knowledge in the art and the teachings in this disclosure, the skilled person can correct HSCs as to a genetic hematologic disorder, e.g., β-Thalassemia, Hemophilia, or a genetic lysosomal storage disease.

Treating Disease of the Brain, Central Nervous and Immune Systems

The present invention also contemplates delivering the CRISPR-Cas system to the brain or neurons. For example, RNA interference (RNAi) offers therapeutic potential for this disorder by reducing the expression of HTT, the disease-causing gene of Huntington's disease (see, e.g., McBride et al., Molecular Therapy vol. 19 no. 12 Dec. 2011, pp. 2152-2162), therefore Applicant postulates that it may be used/and or adapted to the CRISPR-Cas system. The CRISPR-Cas system may be generated using an algorithm to reduce the off-targeting potential of antisense sequences. The CRISPR-Cas sequences may target either a sequence in exon 52 of mouse, rhesus or human huntingtin and expressed in a viral vector, such as AAV. Animals, including humans, may be injected with about three microinjections per hemisphere (six injections total): the first 1 mm rostral to the anterior commissure (12 μl) and the two remaining injections (12 μl and 10 μl, respectively) spaced 3 and 6 mm caudal to the first injection with 1e12 vg/ml of AAV at a rate of about 1 μl/minute, and the needle was left in place for an additional 5 minutes to allow the injectate to diffuse from the needle tip.

DiFiglia et al. (PNAS, Oct. 23, 2007, vol. 104, no. 43, 17204-17209) observed that single administration into the adult striatum of an siRNA targeting Htt can silence mutant Htt, attenuate neuronal pathology, and delay the abnormal behavioral phenotype observed in a rapid-onset, viral transgenic mouse model of HD. DiFiglia injected mice intrastriatally with 2 μl of Cy3-labeled cc-siRNA-Htt or unconjugated siRNA-Htt at 10 μM. A similar dosage of CRISPR Cas targeted to Htt may be contemplated for humans in the present invention, for example, about 5-10 ml of 10 μM CRISPR Cas targeted to Htt may be injected intrastriatally.

In another example, Boudreau et al. (Molecular Therapy vol. 17 no. 6 Jun. 2009) injects 5 μl of recombinant AAV serotype 2/1 vectors expressing htt-specific RNAi virus (at 4×10¹² viral genomes/ml) into the striatum. A similar dosage of CRISPR Cas targeted to Htt may be contemplated for humans in the present invention, for example, about 10-20 ml of 4×10¹² viral genomes/ml) CRISPR Cas targeted to Htt may be injected intrastriatally.

In another example, a CRISPR Cas targeted to HTT may be administered continuously (see, e.g., Yu et al., Cell 150, 895-908, Aug. 31, 2012). Yu et al. utilizes osmotic pumps delivering 0.25 ml/hr (Model 2004) to deliver 300 mg/day of ss-siRNA or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) (Sigma Aldrich) for 28 days, and pumps designed to deliver 0.5 μl/hr (Model 2002) were used to deliver 75 mg/day of the positive control MOE ASO for 14 days. Pumps (Durect Corporation) were filled with ss-siRNA or MOE diluted in sterile PBS and then incubated at 37 C for 24 or 48 (Model 2004) hours prior to implantation. Mice were anesthetized with 2.5% isofluorane, and a midline incision was made at the base of the skull. Using stereotaxic guides, a cannula was implanted into the right lateral ventricle and secured with Loctite adhesive. A catheter attached to an Alzet osmotic mini pump was attached to the cannula, and the pump was placed subcutaneously in the midscapular area. The incision was closed with 5.0 nylon sutures. A similar dosage of CRISPR Cas targeted to Htt may be contemplated for humans in the present invention, for example, about 500 to 1000 g/day CRISPR Cas targeted to Htt may be administered.

In another example of continuous infusion, Stiles et al. (Experimental Neurology 233 (2012) 463-471) implanted an intraparenchymal catheter with a titanium needle tip into the right putamen. The catheter was connected to a SynchroMed® II Pump (Medtronic Neurological, Minneapolis, Minn.) subcutaneously implanted in the abdomen. After a 7 day infusion of phosphate buffered saline at 6 μL/day, pumps were re-filled with test article and programmed for continuous delivery for 7 days. About 2.3 to 11.52 mg/d of siRNA were infused at varying infusion rates of about 0.1 to 0.5 μL/min. A similar dosage of CRISPR Cas targeted to Htt may be contemplated for humans in the present invention, for example, about 20 to 200 mg/day CRISPR Cas targeted to Htt may be administered. In another example, the methods of US Patent Publication No. 20130253040 (WO2013130824) assigned to Sangamo may also be also be adapted from TALES to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention for treating Huntington's Disease. WO2015089354 A1 in the name of The Broad Institute et al., hereby incorporated by reference, describes a targets for Huntington's Disease (HP). Possible target genes of CRISPR complex in regard to Huntington's Disease: PRKCE; IGF1; EP300; RCOR1; PRKCZ; HDAC4; and TGM2.

Accordingly, one or more of PRKCE; IGF1; EP300; RCOR1; PRKCZ; HDAC4; and TGM2 may be selected as targets for Huntington's Disease in some embodiments of the present invention.

Other trinucleotide repeat disorders. These may include any of the following: Category I includes Huntington's disease (HD) and the spinocerebellar ataxias; Category II expansions are phenotypically diverse with heterogeneous expansions that are generally small in magnitude, but also found in the exons of genes; and Category III includes fragile X syndrome, myotonic dystrophy, two of the spinocerebellar ataxias, juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, and Friedreich's ataxia.

A further aspect of the invention relates to utilizing the CRISPR-Cas system for correcting defects in the EMP2A and EMP2B genes that have been identified to be associated with Lafora disease. Lafora disease is an autosomal recessive condition which is characterized by progressive myoclonus epilepsy which may start as epileptic seizures in adolescence. A few cases of the disease may be caused by mutations in genes yet to be identified. The disease causes seizures, muscle spasms, difficulty walking, dementia, and eventually death. There is currently no therapy that has proven effective against disease progression. Other genetic abnormalities associated with epilepsy may also be targeted by the CRISPR-Cas system and the underlying genetics is further described in Genetics of Epilepsy and Genetic Epilepsies, edited by Giuliano Avanzini, Jeffrey L. Noebels, Mariani Foundation Paediatric Neurology:20; 2009).

The methods of US Patent Publication No. 20110158957 assigned to Sangamo BioSciences, Inc. involved in inactivating T cell receptor (TCR) genes may also be modified to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention. In another example, the methods of US Patent Publication No. 20100311124 assigned to Sangamo BioSciences, Inc. and US Patent Publication No. 20110225664 assigned to Cellectis, which are both involved in inactivating glutamine synthetase gene expression genes may also be modified to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention.

Treating Hearing Diseases

The present invention also contemplates delivering the CRISPR-Cas system to one or both ears.

Researchers are looking into whether gene therapy could be used to aid current deafness treatments—namely, cochlear implants. Deafness is often caused by lost or damaged hair cells that cannot relay signals to auditory neurons. In such cases, cochlear implants may be used to respond to sound and transmit electrical signals to the nerve cells. But these neurons often degenerate and retract from the cochlea as fewer growth factors are released by impaired hair cells.

US patent application 20120328580 describes injection of a pharmaceutical composition into the ear (e.g., auricular administration), such as into the luminae of the cochlea (e.g., the Scala media, Sc vestibulae, and Sc tympani), e.g., using a syringe, e.g., a single-dose syringe. For example, one or more of the compounds described herein can be administered by intratympanic injection (e.g., into the middle ear), and/or injections into the outer, middle, and/or inner ear. Such methods are routinely used in the art, for example, for the administration of steroids and antibiotics into human ears. Injection can be, for example, through the round window of the ear or through the cochlear capsule. Other inner ear administration methods are known in the art (see, e.g., Salt and Plontke, Drug Discovery Today, 10:1299-1306, 2005).

In another mode of administration, the pharmaceutical composition can be administered in situ, via a catheter or pump. A catheter or pump can, for example, direct a pharmaceutical composition into the cochlear luminae or the round window of the ear and/or the lumen of the colon. Exemplary drug delivery apparatus and methods suitable for administering one or more of the compounds described herein into an ear, e.g., a human ear, are described by McKenna et al., (U.S. Publication No. 2006/0030837) and Jacobsen et al., (U.S. Pat. No. 7,206,639). In some embodiments, a catheter or pump can be positioned, e.g., in the ear (e.g., the outer, middle, and/or inner ear) of a patient during a surgical procedure. In some embodiments, a catheter or pump can be positioned, e.g., in the ear (e.g., the outer, middle, and/or inner ear) of a patient without the need for a surgical procedure.

Alternatively or in addition, one or more of the compounds described herein can be administered in combination with a mechanical device such as a cochlear implant or a hearing aid, which is worn in the outer ear. An exemplary cochlear implant that is suitable for use with the present invention is described by Edge et al., (U.S. Publication No. 2007/0093878).

In some embodiments, the modes of administration described above may be combined in any order and can be simultaneous or interspersed.

Alternatively or in addition, the present invention may be administered according to any of the Food and Drug Administration approved methods, for example, as described in CDER Data Standards Manual, version number 004 (which is available at fda.give/cder/dsm/DRG/drg00301.htm).

In general, the cell therapy methods described in US patent application 20120328580 can be used to promote complete or partial differentiation of a cell to or towards a mature cell type of the inner ear (e.g., a hair cell) in vitro. Cells resulting from such methods can then be transplanted or implanted into a patient in need of such treatment. The cell culture methods required to practice these methods, including methods for identifying and selecting suitable cell types, methods for promoting complete or partial differentiation of selected cells, methods for identifying complete or partially differentiated cell types, and methods for implanting complete or partially differentiated cells are described below.

Cells suitable for use in the present invention include, but are not limited to, cells that are capable of differentiating completely or partially into a mature cell of the inner ear, e.g., a hair cell (e.g., an inner and/or outer hair cell), when contacted, e.g., in vitro, with one or more of the compounds described herein. Exemplary cells that are capable of differentiating into a hair cell include, but are not limited to stem cells (e.g., inner ear stem cells, adult stem cells, bone marrow derived stem cells, embryonic stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells, skin stem cells, iPS cells, and fat derived stem cells), progenitor cells (e.g., inner ear progenitor cells), support cells (e.g., Deiters' cells, pillar cells, inner phalangeal cells, tectal cells and Hensen's cells), and/or germ cells. The use of stem cells for the replacement of inner ear sensory cells is described in Li et al., (U.S. Publication No. 2005/0287127) and Li et al., (U.S. patent Ser. No. 11/953,797). The use of bone marrow derived stem cells for the replacement of inner ear sensory cells is described in Edge et al., PCT/US2007/084654. iPS cells are described, e.g., at Takahashi et al., Cell, Volume 131, Issue 5, Pages 861-872 (2007); Takahashi and Yamanaka, Cell 126, 663-76 (2006); Okita et al., Nature 448, 260-262 (2007); Yu, J. et al., Science 318(5858):1917-1920 (2007); Nakagawa et al., Nat. Biotechnol. 26:101-106 (2008); and Zaehres and Scholer, Cell 131(5):834-835 (2007). Such suitable cells can be identified by analyzing (e.g., qualitatively or quantitatively) the presence of one or more tissue specific genes. For example, gene expression can be detected by detecting the protein product of one or more tissue-specific genes. Protein detection techniques involve staining proteins (e.g., using cell extracts or whole cells) using antibodies against the appropriate antigen. In this case, the appropriate antigen is the protein product of the tissue-specific gene expression. Although, in principle, a first antibody (i.e., the antibody that binds the antigen) can be labeled, it is more common (and improves the visualization) to use a second antibody directed against the first (e.g., an anti-IgG). This second antibody is conjugated either with fluorochromes, or appropriate enzymes for colorimetric reactions, or gold beads (for electron microscopy), or with the biotin-avidin system, so that the location of the primary antibody, and thus the antigen, can be recognized.

The CRISPR Cas molecules of the present invention may be delivered to the ear by direct application of pharmaceutical composition to the outer ear, with compositions modified from US Published application, 20110142917. In some embodiments the pharmaceutical composition is applied to the ear canal. Delivery to the ear may also be referred to as aural or otic delivery.

In some embodiments the RNA molecules of the invention are delivered in liposome or lipofectin formulations and the like and can be prepared by methods well known to those skilled in the art. Such methods are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,593,972, 5,589,466, and 5,580,859, which are herein incorporated by reference.

Delivery systems aimed specifically at the enhanced and improved delivery of siRNA into mammalian cells have been developed, (see, for example, Shen et al FEBS Let. 2003, 539:111-114; Xia et al., Nat. Biotech. 2002, 20:1006-1010; Reich et al., Mol. Vision. 2003, 9: 210-216; Sorensen et al., J. Mol. Biol. 2003, 327: 761-766; Lewis et al., Nat. Gen. 2002, 32: 107-108 and Simeoni et al., NAR 2003, 31, 11: 2717-2724) and may be applied to the present invention. siRNA has recently been successfully used for inhibition of gene expression in primates (see for example Tolentino et al., Retina 24(4):660 which may also be applied to the present invention).

Qi et al. discloses methods for efficient siRNA transfection to the inner ear through the intact round window by a novel proteidic delivery technology which may be applied to the nucleic acid-targeting system of the present invention (see, e.g., Qi et al., Gene Therapy (2013), 1-9). In particular, a TAT double stranded RNA-binding domains (TAT-DRBDs), which can transfect Cy3-labeled siRNA into cells of the inner ear, including the inner and outer hair cells, crista ampullaris, macula utriculi and macula sacculi, through intact round-window permeation was successful for delivering double stranded siRNAs in vivo for treating various inner ear ailments and preservation of hearing function. About 40 μl of 10 mM RNA may be contemplated as the dosage for administration to the ear.

According to Rejali et al. (Hear Res. 2007 June; 228(1-2):180-7), cochlear implant function can be improved by good preservation of the spiral ganglion neurons, which are the target of electrical stimulation by the implant and brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has previously been shown to enhance spiral ganglion survival in experimentally deafened ears. Rejali et al. tested a modified design of the cochlear implant electrode that includes a coating of fibroblast cells transduced by a viral vector with a BDNF gene insert. To accomplish this type of ex vivo gene transfer, Rejali et al. transduced guinea pig fibroblasts with an adenovirus with a BDNF gene cassette insert, and determined that these cells secreted BDNF and then attached BDNF-secreting cells to the cochlear implant electrode via an agarose gel, and implanted the electrode in the scala tympani. Rejali et al. determined that the BDNF expressing electrodes were able to preserve significantly more spiral ganglion neurons in the basal turns of the cochlea after 48 days of implantation when compared to control electrodes and demonstrated the feasibility of combining cochlear implant therapy with ex vivo gene transfer for enhancing spiral ganglion neuron survival. Such a system may be applied to the nucleic acid-targeting system of the present invention for delivery to the ear.

Mukherjea et al. (Antioxidants & Redox Signaling, Volume 13, Number 5, 2010) document that knockdown of NOX3 using short interfering (si) RNA abrogated cisplatin ototoxicity, as evidenced by protection of OHCs from damage and reduced threshold shifts in auditory brainstem responses (ABRs). Different doses of siNOX3 (0.3, 0.6, and 0.9 μg) were administered to rats and NOX3 expression was evaluated by real time RT-PCR. The lowest dose of NOX3 siRNA used (0.3 μg) did not show any inhibition of NOX3 mRNA when compared to transtympanic administration of scrambled siRNA or untreated cochleae. However, administration of the higher doses of NOX3 siRNA (0.6 and 0.9 μg) reduced NOX3 expression compared to control scrambled siRNA. Such a system may be applied to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention for transtympanic administration with a dosage of about 2 mg to about 4 mg of CRISPR Cas for administration to a human.

Jung et al. (Molecular Therapy, vol. 21 no. 4, 834-841 April 2013) demonstrate that Hes5 levels in the utricle decreased after the application of siRNA and that the number of hair cells in these utricles was significantly larger than following control treatment. The data suggest that siRNA technology may be useful for inducing repair and regeneration in the inner ear and that the Notch signaling pathway is a potentially useful target for specific gene expression inhibition. Jung et al. injected 8 μg of Hes5 siRNA in 2 μl volume, prepared by adding sterile normal saline to the lyophilized siRNA to a vestibular epithelium of the ear. Such a system may be applied to the nucleic acid-targeting system of the present invention for administration to the vestibular epithelium of the ear with a dosage of about 1 to about 30 mg of CRISPR Cas for administration to a human.

Treating Diseases of the Eye

The present invention also contemplates delivering the CRISPR-Cas9 system to one or both eyes.

In yet another aspect of the invention, the CRISPR-Cas9 system may be used to correct ocular defects that arise from several genetic mutations further described in Genetic Diseases of the Eye, Second Edition, edited by Elias I. Traboulsi, Oxford University Press, 2012.

For administration to the eye, lentiviral vectors, in particular equine infectious anemia viruses (EIAV) are particularly preferred.

In another embodiment, minimal non-primate lentiviral vectors based on the equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV) are also contemplated, especially for ocular gene therapy (see, e.g., Balagaan, J Gene Med 2006; 8: 275-285, Published online 21 Nov. 2005 in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI: 10.1002/jgm.845). The vectors are contemplated to have cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter driving expression of the target gene. Intracameral, subretinal, intraocular and intravitreal injections are all contemplated (see, e.g., Balagaan, J Gene Med 2006; 8: 275-285, Published online 21 Nov. 2005 in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI: 10.1002/jgm.845). Intraocular injections may be performed with the aid of an operating microscope. For subretinal and intravitreal injections, eyes may be prolapsed by gentle digital pressure and fundi visualised using a contact lens system consisting of a drop of a coupling medium solution on the cornea covered with a glass microscope slide coverslip. For subretinal injections, the tip of a 10-mm 34-gauge needle, mounted on a 5-μl Hamilton syringe may be advanced under direct visualisation through the superior equatorial sclera tangentially towards the posterior pole until the aperture of the needle was visible in the subretinal space. Then, 2 μl of vector suspension may be injected to produce a superior bullous retinal detachment, thus confirming subretinal vector administration. This approach creates a self-sealing sclerotomy allowing the vector suspension to be retained in the subretinal space until it is absorbed by the RPE, usually within 48 h of the procedure. This procedure may be repeated in the inferior hemisphere to produce an inferior retinal detachment. This technique results in the exposure of approximately 70% of neurosensory retina and RPE to the vector suspension. For intravitreal injections, the needle tip may be advanced through the sclera 1 mm posterior to the corneoscleral limbus and 2 μl of vector suspension injected into the vitreous cavity. For intracameral injections, the needle tip may be advanced through a corneoscleral limbal paracentesis, directed towards the central cornea, and 2 μl of vector suspension may be injected. For intracameral injections, the needle tip may be advanced through a corneoscleral limbal paracentesis, directed towards the central cornea, and 2 μl of vector suspension may be injected. These vectors may be injected at titres of either 1.0-1.4×10¹⁰ or 1.0-1.4×10⁹ transducing units (TU)/ml.

In another embodiment, RetinoStat®, an equine infectious anemia virus-based lentiviral gene therapy vector that expresses angiostatic proteins endostain and angiostatin that is delivered via a subretinal injection for the treatment of the web form of age-related macular degeneration is also contemplated (see, e.g., Binley et al., HUMAN GENE THERAPY 23:980-991 (September 2012)). Such a vector may be modified for the CRISPR-Cas9 system of the present invention. Each eye may be treated with either RetinoStat® at a dose of 1.1×10⁵ transducing units per eye (TU/eye) in a total volume of 100 μl.

In an embodiment, mention is made of WO 2015/153780 which comprehends providing a treatment or prevention of Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG) by targeting the coding sequence of the MYOC gene. Some of the target mutations which give rise to POAG include, but are not limited to, P370 (e.g. P370L); 1477 (e.g., I477N or I477S); T377 (e.g., TE77R); Q368 (Q368stop)—all in the MYOC gene. The target mutation also may include a mutational hotspot between amino acid sequence positions 246-252 in the MYOC gene. In an embodiment, the target mutation is a mutational hotspot between amino acid sequence positions, e.g., amino acids 368-380, amino acids 368-370+377-380, amino acids 364-380, or amino acids 347-380 in the MYOC gene. In an embodiment, the target mutation is a mutational hotspot between amino acid sequence positions 423-437 (e.g., amino acids 423-426, amino acids 423-427 and amino acids 423-437) in the MYOC gene. In an embodiment, the target mutation is a mutational hotspot between amino acid sequence positions 477-502 in the MYOC gene (see, e.g., WO 2015/153780).

In another embodiment, an E1-, partial E3-, E4-deleted adenoviral vector may be contemplated for delivery to the eye. Twenty-eight patients with advanced neovascular age related macular degeneration (AMD) were given a single intravitreous injection of an E1-, partial E3-, E4-deleted adenoviral vector expressing human pigment epithelium-derived factor (AdPEDF.11) (see, e.g., Campochiaro et al., Human Gene Therapy 17:167-176 (February 2006)). Doses ranging from 10⁶ to 10^(9.5) particle units (PU) were investigated and there were no serious adverse events related to AdPEDF.11 and no dose-limiting toxicities (see, e.g., Campochiaro et al., Human Gene Therapy 17:167-176 (February 2006)). Adenoviral vector mediated ocular gene transfer appears to be a viable approach for the treatment of ocular disorders and could be applied to the CRISPR Cas9 system.

In another embodiment, the sd-rxRNA® system of RXi Pharmaceuticals may be used/and or adapted for delivering CRISPR Cas9 to the eye. In this system, a single intravitreal administration of 3 μg of sd-rxRNA results in sequence-specific reduction of PPIB mRNA levels for 14 days. The sd-rxRNA® system may be applied to the nucleic acid-targeting system of the present invention, contemplating a dose of about 3 to 20 mg of CRISPR administered to a human.

Millington-Ward et al. (Molecular Therapy, vol. 19 no. 4, 642-649 April 2011) describes adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors to deliver an RNA interference (RNAi)-based rhodopsin suppressor and a codon-modified rhodopsin replacement gene resistant to suppression due to nucleotide alterations at degenerate positions over the RNAi target site. An injection of either 6.0×10⁸ vp or 1.8×10¹⁰ vp AAV were subretinally injected into the eyes by Millington-Ward et al. The AAV vectors of Millington-Ward et al. may be applied to the CRISPR Cas9 system of the present invention, contemplating a dose of about 2×10¹¹ to about 6×10¹³ vp administered to a human.

Dalkara et al. (Sci Transl Med 5, 189ra76 (2013)) also relates to in vivo directed evolution to fashion an AAV vector that delivers wild-type versions of defective genes throughout the retina after noninjurious injection into the eyes' vitreous humor. Dalkara describes a 7mer peptide display library and an AAV library constructed by DNA shuffling of cap genes from AAV1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, and 9. The rcAAV libraries and rAAV vectors expressing GFP under a CAG or Rho promoter were packaged and deoxyribonuclease-resistant genomic titers were obtained through quantitative PCR. The libraries were pooled, and two rounds of evolution were performed, each consisting of initial library diversification followed by three in vivo selection steps. In each such step, P30 rho-GFP mice were intravitreally injected with 2 ml of iodixanol-purified, phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)-dialyzed library with a genomic titer of about 1×10¹² vg/ml. The AAV vectors of Dalkara et al. may be applied to the nucleic acid-targeting system of the present invention, contemplating a dose of about 1×10¹⁵ to about 1×10¹⁶ vg/ml administered to a human.

In another embodiment, the rhodopsin gene may be targeted for the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa (RP), wherein the system of US Patent Publication No. 20120204282 assigned to Sangamo BioSciences, Inc. may be modified in accordance of the CRISPR Cas9 system of the present invention.

In another embodiment, the methods of US Patent Publication No. 20130183282 assigned to Cellectis, which is directed to methods of cleaving a target sequence from the human rhodopsin gene, may also be modified to the nucleic acid-targeting system of the present invention.

US Patent Publication No. 20130202678 assigned to Academia Sinica relates to methods for treating retinopathies and sight-threatening ophthalmologic disorders relating to delivering of the Puf-A gene (which is expressed in retinal ganglion and pigmented cells of eye tissues and displays a unique anti-apoptotic activity) to the sub-retinal or intravitreal space in the eye. In particular, desirable targets are zgc:193933, prdmla, spata2, tex10, rbb4, ddx3, zp2.2, Blimp-1 and HtrA2, all of which may be targeted by the nucleic acid-targeting system of the present invention.

Wu (Cell Stem Cell, 13:659-62, 2013) designed a guide RNA that led Cas9 to a single base pair mutation that causes cataracts in mice, where it induced DNA cleavage. Then using either the other wild-type allele or oligos given to the zygotes repair mechanisms corrected the sequence of the broken allele and corrected the cataract-causing genetic defect in mutant mouse.

US Patent Publication No. 20120159653, describes use of zinc finger nucleases to genetically modify cells, animals and proteins associated with macular degeneration (MD). Macular degeneration (MD) is the primary cause of visual impairment in the elderly, but is also a hallmark symptom of childhood diseases such as Stargardt disease, Sorsby fundus, and fatal childhood neurodegenerative diseases, with an age of onset as young as infancy. Macular degeneration results in a loss of vision in the center of the visual field (the macula) because of damage to the retina. Currently existing animal models do not recapitulate major hallmarks of the disease as it is observed in humans. The available animal models comprising mutant genes encoding proteins associated with MD also produce highly variable phenotypes, making translations to human disease and therapy development problematic.

One aspect of US Patent Publication No. 20120159653 relates to editing of any chromosomal sequences that encode proteins associated with MD which may be applied to the nucleic acid-targeting system of the present invention. The proteins associated with MD are typically selected based on an experimental association of the protein associated with MD to an MD disorder. For example, the production rate or circulating concentration of a protein associated with MD may be elevated or depressed in a population having an MD disorder relative to a population lacking the MD disorder. Differences in protein levels may be assessed using proteomic techniques including but not limited to Western blot, immunohistochemical staining, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and mass spectrometry. Alternatively, the proteins associated with MD may be identified by obtaining gene expression profiles of the genes encoding the proteins using genomic techniques including but not limited to DNA microarray analysis, serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE), and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR).

By way of non-limiting example, proteins associated with MD include but are not limited to the following proteins: (ABCA4) ATP-binding cassette, sub-family A (ABC1), member 4 ACHM1 achromatopsia (rod monochromacy) 1 ApoE Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) C1QTNF5 (CTRPS) C1q and tumor necrosis factor related protein 5 (C1QTNF5) C2 Complement component 2 (C2) C3 Complement components (C3) CCL2 Chemokine (C-C motif) Ligand 2 (CCL2) CCR2 Chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 2 (CCR2) CD36 Cluster of Differentiation 36 CFB Complement factor B CFH Complement factor CFH H CFHR1 complement factor H-related 1 CFHR3 complement factor H-related 3 CNGB3 cyclic nucleotide gated channel beta 3 CP ceruloplasmin (CP) CRP C reactive protein (CRP) CST3 cystatin C or cystatin 3 (CST3) CTSD Cathepsin D (CTSD) CX3CR1 chemokine (C-X3-C motif) receptor 1 ELOVL4 Elongation of very long chain fatty acids 4 ERCC6 excision repair crosscomplementing rodent repair deficiency, complementation group 6 FBLN5 Fibulin-5 FBLN5 Fibulin 5 FBLN6 Fibulin 6 FSCN2 fascin (FSCN2) HMCN1 Hemicentrin 1 HMCN1 hemicentin 1 HTRA1 HtrA serine peptidase 1 (HTRA1) HTRA1 HtrA serine peptidase 1 IL-6 Interleukin 6 IL-8 Interleukin 8 LOC387715 Hypothetical protein PLEKHA1 Pleckstrin homology domain containing family A member 1 (PLEKHA1) PROM1 Prominin 1 (PROM1 or CD133) PRPH2 Peripherin-2 RPGR retinitis pigmentosa GTPase regulator SERPING1 serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade G, member 1 (C1-inhibitor) TCOF1 Treacle TIMP3 Metalloproteinase inhibitor 3 (TIMP3) TLR3 Toll-like receptor 3.

The identity of the protein associated with MD whose chromosomal sequence is edited can and will vary. In preferred embodiments, the proteins associated with MD whose chromosomal sequence is edited may be the ATP-binding cassette, sub-family A (ABC1) member 4 protein (ABCA4) encoded by the ABCR gene, the apolipoprotein E protein (APOE) encoded by the APOE gene, the chemokine (C-C motif) Ligand 2 protein (CCL2) encoded by the CCL2 gene, the chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 2 protein (CCR2) encoded by the CCR2 gene, the ceruloplasmin protein (CP) encoded by the CP gene, the cathepsin D protein (CTSD) encoded by the CTSD gene, or the metalloproteinase inhibitor 3 protein (TIMP3) encoded by the TIMP3 gene. In an exemplary embodiment, the genetically modified animal is a rat, and the edited chromosomal sequence encoding the protein associated with MD may be: (ABCA4) ATPbinding cassette, NM_000350 sub-family A (ABC1), member 4 APOE Apolipoprotein E NM_138828 (APOE) CCL2 Chemokine (C-C NM_031530 motif) Ligand 2 (CCL2) CCR2 Chemokine (C-C NM_021866 motif) receptor 2 (CCR2) CP ceruloplasmin (CP) NM_012532 CTSD Cathepsin D (CTSD) NM_134334 TIMP3 Metalloproteinase NM_012886 inhibitor 3 (TIMP3) The animal or cell may comprise 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or more disrupted chromosomal sequences encoding a protein associated with MD and zero, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or more chromosomally integrated sequences encoding the disrupted protein associated with MD.

The edited or integrated chromosomal sequence may be modified to encode an altered protein associated with MD. Several mutations in MD-related chromosomal sequences have been associated with MD. Non-limiting examples of mutations in chromosomal sequences associated with MD include those that may cause MD including in the ABCR protein, E471K (i.e. glutamate at position 471 is changed to lysine), R1129L (i.e. arginine at position 1129 is changed to leucine), T1428M (i.e. threonine at position 1428 is changed to methionine), R15175 (i.e. arginine at position 1517 is changed to serine), I1562T (i.e. isoleucine at position 1562 is changed to threonine), and G1578R (i.e. glycine at position 1578 is changed to arginine); in the CCR2 protein, V641 (i.e. valine at position 192 is changed to isoleucine); in CP protein, G969B (i.e. glycine at position 969 is changed to asparagine or aspartate); in TIMP3 protein, S156C (i.e. serine at position 156 is changed to cysteine), G166C (i.e. glycine at position 166 is changed to cysteine), G167C (i.e. glycine at position 167 is changed to cysteine), Y168C (i.e. tyrosine at position 168 is changed to cysteine), S170C (i.e. serine at position 170 is changed to cysteine), Y172C (i.e. tyrosine at position 172 is changed to cysteine) and S181C (i.e. serine at position 181 is changed to cysteine). Other associations of genetic variants in MD-associated genes and disease are known in the art.

Treating Circulatory and Muscular Diseases

The present invention also contemplates delivering the CRISPR-Cas system described herein, e.g. Cas9 effector protein systems, to the heart. For the heart, a myocardium tropic adena-associated virus (AAVM) is preferred, in particular AAVM41 which showed preferential gene transfer in the heart (see, e.g., Lin-Yanga et al., PNAS, Mar. 10, 2009, vol. 106, no. 10). Administration may be systemic or local. A dosage of about 1-10×10¹⁴ vector genomes are contemplated for systemic administration. See also, e.g., Eulalio et al. (2012) Nature 492: 376 and Somasuntharam et al. (2013) Biomaterials 34: 7790.

For example, US Patent Publication No. 20110023139, describes use of zinc finger nucleases to genetically modify cells, animals and proteins associated with cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular diseases generally include high blood pressure, heart attacks, heart failure, and stroke and TIA. Any chromosomal sequence involved in cardiovascular disease or the protein encoded by any chromosomal sequence involved in cardiovascular disease may be utilized in the methods described in this disclosure. The cardiovascular-related proteins are typically selected based on an experimental association of the cardiovascular-related protein to the development of cardiovascular disease. For example, the production rate or circulating concentration of a cardiovascular-related protein may be elevated or depressed in a population having a cardiovascular disorder relative to a population lacking the cardiovascular disorder. Differences in protein levels may be assessed using proteomic techniques including but not limited to Western blot, immunohistochemical staining, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and mass spectrometry. Alternatively, the cardiovascular-related proteins may be identified by obtaining gene expression profiles of the genes encoding the proteins using genomic techniques including but not limited to DNA microarray analysis, serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE), and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR).

By way of example, the chromosomal sequence may comprise, but is not limited to, IL1B (interleukin 1, beta), XDH (xanthine dehydrogenase), TP53 (tumor protein p53), PTGIS (prostaglandin 12 (prostacyclin) synthase), MB (myoglobin), IL4 (interleukin 4), ANGPT1 (angiopoietin 1), ABCG8 (ATP-binding cassette, sub-family G (WHITE), member 8), CTSK (cathepsin K), PTGIR (prostaglandin 12 (prostacyclin) receptor (IP)), KCNJ11 (potassium inwardly-rectifying channel, subfamily J, member 11), INS (insulin), CRP (C-reactive protein, pentraxin-related), PDGFRB (platelet-derived growth factor receptor, beta polypeptide), CCNA2 (cyclin A2), PDGFB (platelet-derived growth factor beta polypeptide (simian sarcoma viral (v-sis) oncogene homolog)), KCNJ5 (potassium inwardly-rectifying channel, subfamily J, member 5), KCNN3 (potassium intermediate/small conductance calcium-activated channel, subfamily N, member 3), CAPN10 (calpain 10), PTGES (prostaglandin E synthase), ADRA2B (adrenergic, alpha-2B−, receptor), ABCG5 (ATP-binding cassette, sub-family G (WHITE), member 5), PRDX2 (peroxiredoxin 2), CAPN5 (calpain 5), PARP14 (poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase family, member 14), MEX3C (mex-3 homolog C (C. elegans)), ACE angiotensin I converting enzyme (peptidyl-dipeptidase A) 1), TNF (tumor necrosis factor (TNF superfamily, member 2)), IL6 (interleukin 6 (interferon, beta 2)), STN (statin), SERPINE1 (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade E (nexin, plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1), member 1), ALB (albumin), ADIPOQ (adiponectin, C1Q and collagen domain containing), APOB (apolipoprotein B (including Ag(x) antigen)), APOE (apolipoprotein E), LEP (leptin), MTHFR (5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (NADPH)), APOA1 (apolipoprotein A-I), EDN1 (endothelin 1), NPPB (natriuretic peptide precursor B), NOS3 (nitric oxide synthase 3 (endothelial cell)), PPARG (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma), PLAT (plasminogen activator, tissue), PTGS2 (prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (prostaglandin G/H synthase and cyclooxygenase)), CETP (cholesteryl ester transfer protein, plasma), AGTR1 (angiotensin II receptor, type 1), HMGCR (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-Coenzyme A reductase), IGF1 (insulin-like growth factor 1 (somatomedin C)), SELE (selectin E), REN (renin), PPARA (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha), PON1 (paraoxonase 1), KNG1 (kininogen 1), CCL2 (chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2), LPL (lipoprotein lipase), VWF (von Willebrand factor), F2 (coagulation factor II (thrombin)), ICAM1 (intercellular adhesion molecule 1), TGFB1 (transforming growth factor, beta 1), NPPA (natriuretic peptide precursor A), IL10 (interleukin 10), EPO (erythropoietin), SOD1 (superoxide dismutase 1, soluble), VCAM1 (vascular cell adhesion molecule 1), IFNG (interferon, gamma), LPA (lipoprotein, Lp(a)), MPO (myeloperoxidase), ESR1 (estrogen receptor 1), MAPK1 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 1), HP (haptoglobin), F3 (coagulation factor III (thromboplastin, tissue factor)), CST3 (cystatin C), COG2 (component of oligomeric golgi complex 2), MMP9 (matrix metallopeptidase 9 (gelatinase B, 92 kDa gelatinase, 92 kDa type IV collagenase)), SERPINC1 (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade C (antithrombin), member 1), F8 (coagulation factor VIII, procoagulant component), HMOX1 (heme oxygenase (decycling) 1), APOC3 (apolipoprotein C-III), IL8 (interleukin 8), PROK1 (prokineticin 1), CBS (cystathionine-beta-synthase), NOS2 (nitric oxide synthase 2, inducible), TLR4 (toll-like receptor 4), SELP (selectin P (granule membrane protein 140 kDa, antigen CD62)), ABCA1 (ATP-binding cassette, sub-family A (ABC1), member 1), AGT (angiotensinogen (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade A, member 8)), LDLR (low density lipoprotein receptor), GPT (glutamic-pyruvate transaminase (alanine aminotransferase)), VEGFA (vascular endothelial growth factor A), NR3C2 (nuclear receptor subfamily 3, group C, member 2), IL18 (interleukin 18 (interferon-gamma-inducing factor)), NOS1 (nitric oxide synthase 1 (neuronal)), NR3C1 (nuclear receptor subfamily 3, group C, member 1 (glucocorticoid receptor)), FGB (fibrinogen beta chain), HGF (hepatocyte growth factor (hepapoietin A; scatter factor)), ILIA (interleukin 1, alpha), RETN (resistin), AKT1 (v-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog 1), LIPC (lipase, hepatic), HSPD1 (heat shock 60 kDa protein 1 (chaperonin)), MAPK14 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 14), SPP1 (secreted phosphoprotein 1), ITGB3 (integrin, beta 3 (platelet glycoprotein 111a, antigen CD61)), CAT (catalase), UTS2 (urotensin 2), THBD (thrombomodulin), F10 (coagulation factor X), CP (ceruloplasmin (ferroxidase)), TNFRSF11B (tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, member 11b), EDNRA (endothelin receptor type A), EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor (erythroblastic leukemia viral (v-erb-b) oncogene homolog, avian)), MMP2 (matrix metallopeptidase 2 (gelatinase A, 72 kDa gelatinase, 72 kDa type IV collagenase)), PLG (plasminogen), NPY (neuropeptide Y), RHOD (ras homolog gene family, member D), MAPK8 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 8), MYC (v-myc myelocytomatosis viral oncogene homolog (avian)), FN1 (fibronectin 1), CMA1 (chymase 1, mast cell), PLAU (plasminogen activator, urokinase), GNB3 (guanine nucleotide binding protein (G protein), beta polypeptide 3), ADRB2 (adrenergic, beta-2-, receptor, surface), APOA5 (apolipoprotein A-V), SOD2 (superoxide dismutase 2, mitochondrial), F5 (coagulation factor V (proaccelerin, labile factor)), VDR (vitamin D (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3) receptor), ALOX5 (arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase), HLA-DRB1 (major histocompatibility complex, class II, DR beta 1), PARP1 (poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1), CD40LG (CD40 ligand), PON2 (paraoxonase 2), AGER (advanced glycosylation end product-specific receptor), IRS1 (insulin receptor substrate 1), PTGS1 (prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 1 (prostaglandin G/H synthase and cyclooxygenase)), ECE1 (endothelin converting enzyme 1), F7 (coagulation factor VII (serum prothrombin conversion accelerator)), URN (interleukin 1 receptor antagonist), EPHX2 (epoxide hydrolase 2, cytoplasmic), IGFBP1 (insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1), MAPK10 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 10), FAS (Fas (TNF receptor superfamily, member 6)), ABCB1 (ATP-binding cassette, sub-family B (MDR/TAP), member 1), JUN (jun oncogene), IGFBP3 (insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3), CD14 (CD14 molecule), PDE5A (phosphodiesterase 5A, cGMP-specific), AGTR2 (angiotensin II receptor, type 2), CD40 (CD40 molecule, TNF receptor superfamily member 5), LCAT (lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase), CCR5 (chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 5), MMP1 (matrix metallopeptidase 1 (interstitial collagenase)), TIMP1 (TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 1), ADM (adrenomedullin), DYT10 (dystonia 10), STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (acute-phase response factor)), MMP3 (matrix metallopeptidase 3 (stromelysin 1, progelatinase)), ELN (elastin), USF1 (upstream transcription factor 1), CFH (complement factor H), HSPA4 (heat shock 70 kDa protein 4), MMP12 (matrix metallopeptidase 12 (macrophage elastase)), MME (membrane metallo-endopeptidase), F2R (coagulation factor II (thrombin) receptor), SELL (selectin L), CTSB (cathepsin B), ANXA5 (annexin A5), ADRB1 (adrenergic, beta-1-, receptor), CYBA (cytochrome b-245, alpha polypeptide), FGA (fibrinogen alpha chain), GGT1 (gamma-glutamyltransferase 1), LIPG (lipase, endothelial), HIF1A (hypoxia inducible factor 1, alpha subunit (basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor)), CXCR4 (chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 4), PROC (protein C (inactivator of coagulation factors Va and VIIIa)), SCARB1 (scavenger receptor class B, member 1), CD79A (CD79a molecule, immunoglobulin-associated alpha), PLTP (phospholipid transfer protein), ADD1 (adducin 1 (alpha)), FGG (fibrinogen gamma chain), SAA1 (serum amyloid A1), KCNH2 (potassium voltage-gated channel, subfamily H (eag-related), member 2), DPP4 (dipeptidyl-peptidase 4), G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase), NPR1 (natriuretic peptide receptor A/guanylate cyclase A (atrionatriuretic peptide receptor A)), VTN (vitronectin), KIAA0101 (KIAA0101), FOS (FBJ murine osteosarcoma viral oncogene homolog), TLR2 (toll-like receptor 2), PPIG (peptidylprolyl isomerase G (cyclophilin G)), IL1R1 (interleukin 1 receptor, type I), AR (androgen receptor), CYP1A1 (cytochrome P450, family 1, subfamily A, polypeptide 1), SERPINA1 (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade A (alpha-1 antiproteinase, antitrypsin), member 1), MTR (5-methyltetrahydrofolate-homocysteine methyltransferase), RBP4 (retinol binding protein 4, plasma), APOA4 (apolipoprotein A-IV), CDKN2A (cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (melanoma, p16, inhibits CDK4)), FGF2 (fibroblast growth factor 2 (basic)), EDNRB (endothelin receptor type B), ITGA2 (integrin, alpha 2 (CD49B, alpha 2 subunit of VLA-2 receptor)), CABIN1 (calcineurin binding protein 1), SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin), HMGB1 (high-mobility group box 1), HSP90B2P (heat shock protein 90 kDa beta (Grp94), member 2 (pseudogene)), CYP3A4 (cytochrome P450, family 3, subfamily A, polypeptide 4), GJA1 (gap junction protein, alpha 1, 43 kDa), CAV1 (caveolin 1, caveolae protein, 22 kDa), ESR2 (estrogen receptor 2 (ER beta)), LTA (lymphotoxin alpha (TNF superfamily, member 1)), GDF15 (growth differentiation factor 15), BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), CYP2D6 (cytochrome P450, family 2, subfamily D, polypeptide 6), NGF (nerve growth factor (beta polypeptide)), SP1 (Sp1 transcription factor), TGIF1 (TGFB-induced factor homeobox 1), SRC (v-src sarcoma (Schmidt-Ruppin A-2) viral oncogene homolog (avian)), EGF (epidermal growth factor (beta-urogastrone)), PIK3CG (phosphoinositide-3-kinase, catalytic, gamma polypeptide), HLA-A (major histocompatibility complex, class I, A), KCNQ1 (potassium voltage-gated channel, KQT-like subfamily, member 1), CNR1 (cannabinoid receptor 1 (brain)), FBN1 (fibrillin 1), CHKA (choline kinase alpha), BEST1 (bestrophin 1), APP (amyloid beta (A4) precursor protein), CTNNB1 (catenin (cadherin-associated protein), beta 1, 88 kDa), IL2 (interleukin 2), CD36 (CD36 molecule (thrombospondin receptor)), PRKAB1 (protein kinase, AMP-activated, beta 1 non-catalytic subunit), TPO (thyroid peroxidase), ALDH7A1 (aldehyde dehydrogenase 7 family, member A1), CX3CR1 (chemokine (C-X3-C motif) receptor 1), TH (tyrosine hydroxylase), F9 (coagulation factor IX), GH1 (growth hormone 1), TF (transferrin), HFE (hemochromatosis), IL17A (interleukin 17A), PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog), GSTM1 (glutathione S-transferase mu 1), DMD (dystrophin), GATA4 (GATA binding protein 4), F13A1 (coagulation factor XIII, A1 polypeptide), TTR (transthyretin), FABP4 (fatty acid binding protein 4, adipocyte), PON3 (paraoxonase 3), APOC1 (apolipoprotein C-I), INSR (insulin receptor), TNFRSF1B (tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, member 1B), HTR2A (5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) receptor 2A), CSF3 (colony stimulating factor 3 (granulocyte)), CYP2C9 (cytochrome P450, family 2, subfamily C, polypeptide 9), TXN (thioredoxin), CYP11B2 (cytochrome P450, family 11, subfamily B, polypeptide 2), PTH (parathyroid hormone), CSF2 (colony stimulating factor 2 (granulocyte-macrophage)), KDR (kinase insert domain receptor (a type III receptor tyrosine kinase)), PLA2G2A (phospholipase A2, group IIA (platelets, synovial fluid)), B2M (beta-2-microglobulin), THBS1 (thrombospondin 1), GCG (glucagon), RHOA (ras homolog gene family, member A), ALDH2 (aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 family (mitochondrial)), TCF7L2 (transcription factor 7-like 2 (T-cell specific, HMG-box)), BDKRB2 (bradykinin receptor B2), NFE2L2 (nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2), NOTCH1 (Notch homolog 1, translocation-associated (Drosophila)), UGT1A1 (UDP glucuronosyltransferase 1 family, polypeptide A1), IFNA1 (interferon, alpha 1), PPARD (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta), SIRT1 (sirtuin (silent mating type information regulation 2 homolog) 1 (S. cerevisiae)), GNRH1 (gonadotropin-releasing hormone 1 (luteinizing-releasing hormone)), PAPPA (pregnancy-associated plasma protein A, pappalysin 1), ARR3 (arrestin 3, retinal (X-arrestin)), NPPC (natriuretic peptide precursor C), AHSP (alpha hemoglobin stabilizing protein), PTK2 (PTK2 protein tyrosine kinase 2), IL13 (interleukin 13), MTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin (serine/threonine kinase)), ITGB2 (integrin, beta 2 (complement component 3 receptor 3 and 4 subunit)), GSTT1 (glutathione S-transferase theta 1), IL6ST (interleukin 6 signal transducer (gp130, oncostatin M receptor)), CPB2 (carboxypeptidase B2 (plasma)), CYP1A2 (cytochrome P450, family 1, subfamily A, polypeptide 2), HNF4A (hepatocyte nuclear factor 4, alpha), SLC6A4 (solute carrier family 6 (neurotransmitter transporter, serotonin), member 4), PLA2G6 (phospholipase A2, group VI (cytosolic, calcium-independent)), TNFSF11 (tumor necrosis factor (ligand) superfamily, member 11), SLC8A1 (solute carrier family 8 (sodium/calcium exchanger), member 1), F2RL1 (coagulation factor II (thrombin) receptor-like 1), AKR1A1 (aldo-keto reductase family 1, member A1 (aldehyde reductase)), ALDH9A1 (aldehyde dehydrogenase 9 family, member A1), BGLAP (bone gamma-carboxyglutamate (gla) protein), MTTP (microsomal triglyceride transfer protein), MTRR (5-methyltetrahydrofolate-homocysteine methyltransferase reductase), SULT1A3 (sulfotransferase family, cytosolic, 1A, phenol-preferring, member 3), RAGE (renal tumor antigen), C4B (complement component 4B (Chido blood group), P2RY12 (purinergic receptor P2Y, G-protein coupled, 12), RNLS (renalase, FAD-dependent amine oxidase), CREB1 (cAMP responsive element binding protein 1), POMC (proopiomelanocortin), RAC1 (ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (rho family, small GTP binding protein Rac1)), LMNA (lamin NC), CD59 (CD59 molecule, complement regulatory protein), SCN5A (sodium channel, voltage-gated, type V, alpha subunit), CYP1B1 (cytochrome P450, family 1, subfamily B, polypeptide 1), MIF (macrophage migration inhibitory factor (glycosylation-inhibiting factor)), MMP13 (matrix metallopeptidase 13 (collagenase 3)), TIMP2 (TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 2), CYP19A1 (cytochrome P450, family 19, subfamily A, polypeptide 1), CYP21A2 (cytochrome P450, family 21, subfamily A, polypeptide 2), PTPN22 (protein tyrosine phosphatase, non-receptor type 22 (lymphoid)), MYH14 (myosin, heavy chain 14, non-muscle), MBL2 (mannose-binding lectin (protein C) 2, soluble (opsonic defect)), SELPLG (selectin P ligand), AOC3 (amine oxidase, copper containing 3 (vascular adhesion protein 1)), CTSL1 (cathepsin L1), PCNA (proliferating cell nuclear antigen), IGF2 (insulin-like growth factor 2 (somatomedin A)), ITGB1 (integrin, beta 1 (fibronectin receptor, beta polypeptide, antigen CD29 includes MDF2, MSK12)), CAST (calpastatin), CXCL12 (chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 12 (stromal cell-derived factor 1)), IGHE (immunoglobulin heavy constant epsilon), KCNE1 (potassium voltage-gated channel, Isk-related family, member 1), TFRC (transferrin receptor (p90, CD71)), COL1A1 (collagen, type I, alpha 1), COL1A2 (collagen, type I, alpha 2), IL2RB (interleukin 2 receptor, beta), PLA2G10 (phospholipase A2, group X), ANGPT2 (angiopoietin 2), PROCR (protein C receptor, endothelial (EPCR)), NOX4 (NADPH oxidase 4), HAMP (hepcidin antimicrobial peptide), PTPN11 (protein tyrosine phosphatase, non-receptor type 11), SLC2A1 (solute carrier family 2 (facilitated glucose transporter), member 1), IL2RA (interleukin 2 receptor, alpha), CCL5 (chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 5), IRF1 (interferon regulatory factor 1), CFLAR (CASP8 and FADD-like apoptosis regulator), CALCA (calcitonin-related polypeptide alpha), EIF4E (eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E), GSTP1 (glutathione S-transferase pi 1), JAK2 (Janus kinase 2), CYP3A5 (cytochrome P450, family 3, subfamily A, polypeptide 5), HSPG2 (heparan sulfate proteoglycan 2), CCL3 (chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 3), MYD88 (myeloid differentiation primary response gene (88)), VIP (vasoactive intestinal peptide), SOAT1 (sterol O-acyltransferase 1), ADRBK1 (adrenergic, beta, receptor kinase 1), NR4A2 (nuclear receptor subfamily 4, group A, member 2), MMP8 (matrix metallopeptidase 8 (neutrophil collagenase)), NPR2 (natriuretic peptide receptor B/guanylate cyclase B (atrionatriuretic peptide receptor B)), GCH1 (GTP cyclohydrolase 1), EPRS (glutamyl-prolyl-tRNA synthetase), PPARGC1A (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, coactivator 1 alpha), F12 (coagulation factor XII (Hageman factor)), PECAM1 (platelet/endothelial cell adhesion molecule), CCL4 (chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 4), SERPINA3 (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade A (alpha-1 antiproteinase, antitrypsin), member 3), CASR (calcium-sensing receptor), GJA5 (gap junction protein, alpha 5, 40 kDa), FABP2 (fatty acid binding protein 2, intestinal), TTF2 (transcription termination factor, RNA polymerase II), PROS1 (protein S (alpha)), CTF1 (cardiotrophin 1), SGCB (sarcoglycan, beta (43 kDa dystrophin-associated glycoprotein)), YME1L1 (YME1-like 1 (S. cerevisiae)), CAMP (cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide), ZC3H12A (zinc finger CCCH-type containing 12A), AKR1B1 (aldo-keto reductase family 1, member B1 (aldose reductase)), DES (desmin), MMP7 (matrix metallopeptidase 7 (matrilysin, uterine)), AHR (aryl hydrocarbon receptor), CSF1 (colony stimulating factor 1 (macrophage)), HDAC9 (histone deacetylase 9), CTGF (connective tissue growth factor), KCNMA1 (potassium large conductance calcium-activated channel, subfamily M, alpha member 1), UGT1A (UDP glucuronosyltransferase 1 family, polypeptide A complex locus), PRKCA (protein kinase C, alpha), COMT (catechol-.beta.-methyltransferase), S100B (S100 calcium binding protein B), EGR1 (early growth response 1), PRL (prolactin), IL15 (interleukin 15), DRD4 (dopamine receptor D4), CAMK2G (calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II gamma), SLC22A2 (solute carrier family 22 (organic cation transporter), member 2), CCL11 (chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 11), PGF (B321 placental growth factor), THPO (thrombopoietin), GP6 (glycoprotein VI (platelet)), TACR1 (tachykinin receptor 1), NTS (neurotensin), HNF1A (HNF1 homeobox A), SST (somatostatin), KCND1 (potassium voltage-gated channel, Shal-related subfamily, member 1), LOC646627 (phospholipase inhibitor), TBXAS1 (thromboxane A synthase 1 (platelet)), CYP2J2 (cytochrome P450, family 2, subfamily J, polypeptide 2), TBXA2R (thromboxane A2 receptor), ADH1C (alcohol dehydrogenase 1C (class I), gamma polypeptide), ALOX12 (arachidonate 12-lipoxygenase), AHSG (alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein), BHMT (betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase), GJA4 (gap junction protein, alpha 4, 37 kDa), SLC25A4 (solute carrier family 25 (mitochondrial carrier; adenine nucleotide translocator), member 4), ACLY (ATP citrate lyase), ALOX5AP (arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase-activating protein), NUMA1 (nuclear mitotic apparatus protein 1), CYP27B1 (cytochrome P450, family 27, subfamily B, polypeptide 1), CYSLTR2 (cysteinyl leukotriene receptor 2), SOD3 (superoxide dismutase 3, extracellular), LTC4S (leukotriene C4 synthase), UCN (urocortin), GHRL (ghrelin/obestatin prepropeptide), APOC2 (apolipoprotein C-II), CLEC4A (C-type lectin domain family 4, member A), KBTBD10 (kelch repeat and BTB (POZ) domain containing 10), TNC (tenascin C), TYMS (thymidylate synthetase), SHC1 (SHC (Src homology 2 domain containing) transforming protein 1), LRP1 (low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1), SOCS3 (suppressor of cytokine signaling 3), ADH1B (alcohol dehydrogenase 1B (class I), beta polypeptide), KLK3 (kallikrein-related peptidase 3), HSD11B1 (hydroxysteroid (11-beta) dehydrogenase 1), VKORC1 (vitamin K epoxide reductase complex, subunit 1), SERPINB2 (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade B (ovalbumin), member 2), TNS1 (tensin 1), RNF19A (ring finger protein 19A), EPOR (erythropoietin receptor), ITGAM (integrin, alpha M (complement component 3 receptor 3 subunit)), PITX2 (paired-like homeodomain 2), MAPK7 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 7), FCGR3A (Fc fragment of IgG, low affinity 111a, receptor (CD16a)), LEPR (leptin receptor), ENG (endoglin), GPX1 (glutathione peroxidase 1), GOT2 (glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase 2, mitochondrial (aspartate aminotransferase 2)), HRH1 (histamine receptor H1), NR112 (nuclear receptor subfamily 1, group I, member 2), CRH (corticotropin releasing hormone), HTR1A (5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) receptor 1A), VDAC1 (voltage-dependent anion channel 1), HPSE (heparanase), SFTPD (surfactant protein D), TAP2 (transporter 2, ATP-binding cassette, sub-family B (MDR/TAP)), RNF123 (ring finger protein 123), PTK2B (PTK2B protein tyrosine kinase 2 beta), NTRK2 (neurotrophic tyrosine kinase, receptor, type 2), IL6R (interleukin 6 receptor), ACHE (acetylcholinesterase (Yt blood group)), GLP1R (glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor), GHR (growth hormone receptor), GSR (glutathione reductase), NQO1 (NAD(P)H dehydrogenase, quinone 1), NR5A1 (nuclear receptor subfamily 5, group A, member 1), GJB2 (gap junction protein, beta 2, 26 kDa), SLC9A1 (solute carrier family 9 (sodium/hydrogen exchanger), member 1), MAOA (monoamine oxidase A), PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9), FCGR2A (Fc fragment of IgG, low affinity IIa, receptor (CD32)), SERPINF1 (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade F (alpha-2 antiplasmin, pigment epithelium derived factor), member 1), EDN3 (endothelin 3), DHFR (dihydrofolate reductase), GAS6 (growth arrest-specific 6), SMPD1 (sphingomyelin phosphodiesterase 1, acid lysosomal), UCP2 (uncoupling protein 2 (mitochondrial, proton carrier)), TFAP2A (transcription factor AP-2 alpha (activating enhancer binding protein 2 alpha)), C4BPA (complement component 4 binding protein, alpha), SERPINF2 (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade F (alpha-2 antiplasmin, pigment epithelium derived factor), member 2), TYMP (thymidine phosphorylase), ALPP (alkaline phosphatase, placental (Regan isozyme)), CXCR2 (chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 2), SLC39A3 (solute carrier family 39 (zinc transporter), member 3), ABCG2 (ATP-binding cassette, sub-family G (WHITE), member 2), ADA (adenosine deaminase), JAK3 (Janus kinase 3), HSPA1A (heat shock 70 kDa protein 1A), FASN (fatty acid synthase), FGF1 (fibroblast growth factor 1 (acidic)), F11 (coagulation factor XI), ATP7A (ATPase, Cu++ transporting, alpha polypeptide), CR1 (complement component (3b/4b) receptor 1 (Knops blood group)), GFAP (glial fibrillary acidic protein), ROCK1 (Rho-associated, coiled-coil containing protein kinase 1), MECP2 (methyl CpG binding protein 2 (Rett syndrome)), MYLK (myosin light chain kinase), BCHE (butyrylcholinesterase), LIPE (lipase, hormone-sensitive), PRDX5 (peroxiredoxin 5), ADORA1 (adenosine A1 receptor), WRN (Werner syndrome, RecQ helicase-like), CXCR3 (chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 3), CD81 (CD81 molecule), SMAD7 (SMAD family member 7), LAMC2 (laminin, gamma 2), MAP3K5 (mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 5), CHGA (chromogranin A (parathyroid secretory protein 1)), IAPP (islet amyloid polypeptide), RHO (rhodopsin), ENPP1 (ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1), PTHLH (parathyroid hormone-like hormone), NRG1 (neuregulin 1), VEGFC (vascular endothelial growth factor C), ENPEP (glutamyl aminopeptidase (aminopeptidase A)), CEBPB (CCAAT/enhancer binding protein (C/EBP), beta), NAGLU (N-acetylglucosaminidase, alpha-), F2RL3 (coagulation factor II (thrombin) receptor-like 3), CX3CL1 (chemokine (C-X3-C motif) ligand 1), BDKRB1 (bradykinin receptor B1), ADAMTS13 (ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif, 13), ELANE (elastase, neutrophil expressed), ENPP2 (ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 2), CISH (cytokine inducible SH2-containing protein), GAST (gastrin), MYOC (myocilin, trabecular meshwork inducible glucocorticoid response), ATP1A2 (ATPase, Na+/K+ transporting, alpha 2 polypeptide), NF1 (neurofibromin 1), GJB1 (gap junction protein, beta 1, 32 kDa), MEF2A (myocyte enhancer factor 2A), VCL (vinculin), BMPR2 (bone morphogenetic protein receptor, type II (serine/threonine kinase)), TUBB (tubulin, beta), CDC42 (cell division cycle 42 (GTP binding protein, 25 kDa)), KRT18 (keratin 18), HSF1 (heat shock transcription factor 1), MYB (v-myb myeloblastosis viral oncogene homolog (avian)), PRKAA2 (protein kinase, AMP-activated, alpha 2 catalytic subunit), ROCK2 (Rho-associated, coiled-coil containing protein kinase 2), TFPI (tissue factor pathway inhibitor (lipoprotein-associated coagulation inhibitor)), PRKG1 (protein kinase, cGMP-dependent, type I), BMP2 (bone morphogenetic protein 2), CTNND1 (catenin (cadherin-associated protein), delta 1), CTH (cystathionase (cystathionine gamma-lyase)), CTSS (cathepsin S), VAV2 (vav 2 guanine nucleotide exchange factor), NPY2R (neuropeptide Y receptor Y2), IGFBP2 (insulin-like growth factor binding protein 2, 36 kDa), CD28 (CD28 molecule), GSTA1 (glutathione S-transferase alpha 1), PPIA (peptidylprolyl isomerase A (cyclophilin A)), APOH (apolipoprotein H (beta-2-glycoprotein I)), S100A8 (S100 calcium binding protein A8), IL11 (interleukin 11), ALOX15 (arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase), FBLN1 (fibulin 1), NR1H3 (nuclear receptor subfamily 1, group H, member 3), SCD (stearoyl-CoA desaturase (delta-9-desaturase)), GIP (gastric inhibitory polypeptide), CHGB (chromogranin B (secretogranin 1)), PRKCB (protein kinase C, beta), SRD5A1 (steroid-5-alpha-reductase, alpha polypeptide 1 (3-oxo-5 alpha-steroid delta 4-dehydrogenase alpha 1)), HSD11B2 (hydroxysteroid (11-beta) dehydrogenase 2), CALCRL (calcitonin receptor-like), GALNT2 (UDP-N-acetyl-alpha-D-galactosamine:polypeptide N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 2 (GalNAc-T2)), ANGPTL4 (angiopoietin-like 4), KCNN4 (potassium intermediate/small conductance calcium-activated channel, subfamily N, member 4), PIK3C2A (phosphoinositide-3-kinase, class 2, alpha polypeptide), HBEGF (heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor), CYP7A1 (cytochrome P450, family 7, subfamily A, polypeptide 1), HLA-DRB5 (major histocompatibility complex, class II, DR beta 5), BNIP3 (BCL2/adenovirus E1B 19 kDa interacting protein 3), GCKR (glucokinase (hexokinase 4) regulator), S100A12 (S100 calcium binding protein A12), PADI4 (peptidyl arginine deiminase, type IV), HSPA14 (heat shock 70 kDa protein 14), CXCR1 (chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 1), H19 (H19, imprinted maternally expressed transcript (non-protein coding)), KRTAP19-3 (keratin associated protein 19-3), IDDM2 (insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus 2), RAC2 (ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 2 (rho family, small GTP binding protein Rac2)), RYR1 (ryanodine receptor 1 (skeletal)), CLOCK (clock homolog (mouse)), NGFR (nerve growth factor receptor (TNFR superfamily, member 16)), DBH (dopamine beta-hydroxylase (dopamine beta-monooxygenase)), CHRNA4 (cholinergic receptor, nicotinic, alpha 4), CACNA1C (calcium channel, voltage-dependent, L type, alpha 1C subunit), PRKAG2 (protein kinase, AMP-activated, gamma 2 non-catalytic subunit), CHAT (choline acetyltransferase), PTGDS (prostaglandin D2 synthase 21 kDa (brain)), NR1H2 (nuclear receptor subfamily 1, group H, member 2), TEK (TEK tyrosine kinase, endothelial), VEGFB (vascular endothelial growth factor B), MEF2C (myocyte enhancer factor 2C), MAPKAPK2 (mitogen-activated protein kinase-activated protein kinase 2), TNFRSF11A (tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, member 11a, NFKB activator), HSPA9 (heat shock 70 kDa protein 9 (mortalin)), CYSLTR1 (cysteinyl leukotriene receptor 1), MAT1A (methionine adenosyltransferase I, alpha), OPRL1 (opiate receptor-like 1), IMPA1 (inositol(myo)-1(or 4)-monophosphatase 1), CLCN2 (chloride channel 2), DLD (dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase), PSMA6 (proteasome (prosome, macropain) subunit, alpha type, 6), PSMB8 (proteasome (prosome, macropain) subunit, beta type, 8 (large multifunctional peptidase 7)), CHI3L1 (chitinase 3-like 1 (cartilage glycoprotein-39)), ALDH1B1 (aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 family, member B1), PARP2 (poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 2), STAR (steroidogenic acute regulatory protein), LBP (lipopolysaccharide binding protein), ABCC6 (ATP-binding cassette, sub-family C(CFTR/MRP), member 6), RGS2 (regulator of G-protein signaling 2, 24 kDa), EFNB2 (ephrin-B2), GJB6 (gap junction protein, beta 6, 30 kDa), APOA2 (apolipoprotein A-II), AMPD1 (adenosine monophosphate deaminase 1), DYSF (dysferlin, limb girdle muscular dystrophy 2B (autosomal recessive)), FDFT1 (farnesyl-diphosphate farnesyltransferase 1), EDN2 (endothelin 2), CCR6 (chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 6), GJB3 (gap junction protein, beta 3, 31 kDa), IL1RL1 (interleukin 1 receptor-like 1), ENTPD1 (ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase 1), BBS4 (Bardet-Biedl syndrome 4), CELSR2 (cadherin, EGF LAG seven-pass G-type receptor 2 (flamingo homolog, Drosophila)), F11R (F11 receptor), RAPGEF3 (Rap guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) 3), HYAL1 (hyaluronoglucosaminidase 1), ZNF259 (zinc finger protein 259), ATOX1 (ATX1 antioxidant protein 1 homolog (yeast)), ATF6 (activating transcription factor 6), KHK (ketohexokinase (fructokinase)), SAT1 (spermidine/spermine N1-acetyltransferase 1), GGH (gamma-glutamyl hydrolase (conjugase, folylpolygammaglutamyl hydrolase)), TIMP4 (TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 4), SLC4A4 (solute carrier family 4, sodium bicarbonate cotransporter, member 4), PDE2A (phosphodiesterase 2A, cGMP-stimulated), PDE3B (phosphodiesterase 3B, cGMP-inhibited), FADS1 (fatty acid desaturase 1), FADS2 (fatty acid desaturase 2), TMSB4X (thymosin beta 4, X-linked), TXNIP (thioredoxin interacting protein), LIMS1 (LIM and senescent cell antigen-like domains 1), RHOB (ras homolog gene family, member B), LY96 (lymphocyte antigen 96), FOXO1 (forkhead box O1), PNPLA2 (patatin-like phospholipase domain containing 2), TRH (thyrotropin-releasing hormone), GJC1 (gap junction protein, gamma 1, 45 kDa), SLC17A5 (solute carrier family 17 (anion/sugar transporter), member 5), FTO (fat mass and obesity associated), GJD2 (gap junction protein, delta 2, 36 kDa), PSRC1 (proline/serine-rich coiled-coil 1), CASP12 (caspase 12 (gene/pseudogene)), GPBAR1 (G protein-coupled bile acid receptor 1), PXK (PX domain containing serine/threonine kinase), IL33 (interleukin 33), TRIB1 (tribbles homolog 1 (Drosophila)), PBX4 (pre-B-cell leukemia homeobox 4), NUPR1 (nuclear protein, transcriptional regulator, 1), 15-Sep (15 kDa selenoprotein), CILP2 (cartilage intermediate layer protein 2), TERC (telomerase RNA component), GGT2 (gamma-glutamyltransferase 2), MT-CO1 (mitochondrially encoded cytochrome c oxidase I), and UOX (urate oxidase, pseudogene). Any of these sequences, may be a target for the CRISPR-Cas system, e.g., to address mutation.

In an additional embodiment, the chromosomal sequence may further be selected from Pon1 (paraoxonase 1), LDLR (LDL receptor), ApoE (Apolipoprotein E), Apo B-100 (Apolipoprotein B-100), ApoA (Apolipoprotein(a)), ApoA1 (Apolipoprotein A1), CBS (Cystathione B-synthase), Glycoprotein IIb/IIb, MTHRF (5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (NADPH), and combinations thereof. In one iteration, the chromosomal sequences and proteins encoded by chromosomal sequences involved in cardiovascular disease may be chosen from Cacna1C, Sod1, Pten, Ppar(alpha), Apo E, Leptin, and combinations thereof as target(s) for the CRISPR-Cas system.

Treating Diseases of the Liver and Kidney

The present invention also contemplates delivering the CRISPR-Cas system described herein, e.g. Cas9 effector protein systems, to the liver and/or kidney. Delivery strategies to induce cellular uptake of the therapeutic nucleic acid include physical force or vector systems such as viral-, lipid- or complex-based delivery, or nanocarriers. From the initial applications with less possible clinical relevance, when nucleic acids were addressed to renal cells with hydrodynamic high pressure injection systemically, a wide range of gene therapeutic viral and non-viral carriers have been applied already to target posttranscriptional events in different animal kidney disease models in vivo (Csaba Révész and Péter Hamar (2011). Delivery Methods to Target RNAs in the Kidney, Gene Therapy Applications, Prof. Chunsheng Kang (Ed.), ISBN: 978-953-307-541-9, InTech, Available from: http://www.intechopen.com/books/gene-therapy-applications/delivery-methods-to-target-rnas-inthe-kidney). Delivery methods to the kidney may include those in Yuan et al. (Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 295: F605-F617, 2008) investigated whether in vivo delivery of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) targeting the 12/15-lipoxygenase (12/15-LO) pathway of arachidonate acid metabolism can ameliorate renal injury and diabetic nephropathy (DN) in a streptozotocininjected mouse model of type 1 diabetes. To achieve greater in vivo access and siRNA expression in the kidney, Yuan et al. used double-stranded 12/15-LO siRNA oligonucleotides conjugated with cholesterol. About 400 μg of siRNA was injected subcutaneously into mice. The method of Yuang et al. may be applied to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention contemplating a 1-2 g subcutaneous injection of CRISPR Cas conjugated with cholesterol to a human for delivery to the kidneys.

Molitoris et al. (J Am Soc Nephrol 20: 1754-1764, 2009) exploited proximal tubule cells (PTCs), as the site of oligonucleotide reabsorption within the kidney to test the efficacy of siRNA targeted to p53, a pivotal protein in the apoptotic pathway, to prevent kidney injury. Naked synthetic siRNA to p53 injected intravenously 4 h after ischemic injury maximally protected both PTCs and kidney function. Molitoris et al.'s data indicates that rapid delivery of siRNA to proximal tubule cells follows intravenous administration. For dose-response analysis, rats were injected with doses of siP53, 0.33; 1, 3, or 5 mg/kg, given at the same four time points, resulting in cumulative doses of 1.32; 4, 12, and 20 mg/kg, respectively. All siRNA doses tested produced a SCr reducing effect on day one with higher doses being effective over approximately five days compared with PBS-treated ischemic control rats. The 12 and 20 mg/kg cumulative doses provided the best protective effect. The method of Molitoris et al. may be applied to the nucleic acid-targeting system of the present invention contemplating 12 and 20 mg/kg cumulative doses to a human for delivery to the kidneys.

Thompson et al. (Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Volume 22, Number 4, 2012) reports the toxicological and pharmacokinetic properties of the synthetic, small interfering RNA I5NP following intravenous administration in rodents and nonhuman primates. I5NP is designed to act via the RNA interference (RNAi) pathway to temporarily inhibit expression of the pro-apoptotic protein p53 and is being developed to protect cells from acute ischemia/reperfusion injuries such as acute kidney injury that can occur during major cardiac surgery and delayed graft function that can occur following renal transplantation. Doses of 800 mg/kg I5NP in rodents, and 1,000 mg/kg I5NP in nonhuman primates, were required to elicit adverse effects, which in the monkey were isolated to direct effects on the blood that included a sub-clinical activation of complement and slightly increased clotting times. In the rat, no additional adverse effects were observed with a rat analogue of I5NP, indicating that the effects likely represent class effects of synthetic RNA duplexes rather than toxicity related to the intended pharmacologic activity of I5NP. Taken together, these data support clinical testing of intravenous administration of I5NP for the preservation of renal function following acute ischemia/reperfusion injury. The no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) in the monkey was 500 mg/kg. No effects on cardiovascular, respiratory, and neurologic parameters were observed in monkeys following i.v. administration at dose levels up to 25 mg/kg. Therefore, a similar dosage may be contemplated for intravenous administration of CRISPR Cas to the kidneys of a human.

Shimizu et al. (J Am Soc Nephrol 21: 622-633, 2010) developed a system to target delivery of siRNAs to glomeruli via poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(L-lysine)-based vehicles. The siRNA/nanocarrier complex was approximately 10 to 20 nm in diameter, a size that would allow it to move across the fenestrated endothelium to access to the mesangium. After intraperitoneal injection of fluorescence-labeled siRNA/nanocarrier complexes, Shimizu et al. detected siRNAs in the blood circulation for a prolonged time. Repeated intraperitoneal administration of a mitogen-activated protein kinase 1 (MAPK1) siRNA/nanocarrier complex suppressed glomerular MAPK1 mRNA and protein expression in a mouse model of glomerulonephritis. For the investigation of siRNA accumulation, Cy5-labeled siRNAs complexed with PIC nanocarriers (0.5 ml, 5 nmol of siRNA content), naked Cy5-labeled siRNAs (0.5 ml, 5 nmol), or Cy5-labeled siRNAs encapsulated in HVJ-E (0.5 ml, 5 nmol of siRNA content) were administrated to BALBc mice. The method of Shimizu et al. may be applied to the nucleic acid-targeting system of the present invention contemplating a dose of about of 10-20 μmol CRISPR Cas complexed with nanocarriers in about 1-2 liters to a human for intraperitoneal administration and delivery to the kidneys.

Treating Epithelial and Lung Diseases

The present invention also contemplates delivering the CRISPR-Cas system described herein, e.g. Cas9 systems, to one or both lungs.

Although AAV-2-based vectors were originally proposed for CFTR delivery to CF airways, other serotypes such as AAV-1, AAV-5, AAV-6, and AAV-9 exhibit improved gene transfer efficiency in a variety of models of the lung epithelium (see, e.g., Li et al., Molecular Therapy, vol. 17 no. 12, 2067-277 December 2009). AAV-1 was demonstrated to be ˜100-fold more efficient than AAV-2 and AAV-5 at transducing human airway epithelial cells in vitro,5 although AAV-1 transduced murine tracheal airway epithelia in vivo with an efficiency equal to that of AAV-5. Other studies have shown that AAV-5 is 50-fold more efficient than AAV-2 at gene delivery to human airway epithelium (HAE) in vitro and significantly more efficient in the mouse lung airway epithelium in vivo. AAV-6 has also been shown to be more efficient than AAV-2 in human airway epithelial cells in vitro and murine airways in vivo.8 The more recent isolate, AAV-9, was shown to display greater gene transfer efficiency than AAV-5 in murine nasal and alveolar epithelia in vivo with gene expression detected for over 9 months suggesting AAV may enable long-term gene expression in vivo, a desirable property for a CFTR gene delivery vector. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that AAV-9 could be readministered to the murine lung with no loss of CFTR expression and minimal immune consequences. CF and non-CF HAE cultures may be inoculated on the apical surface with 100 μl of AAV vectors for hours (see, e.g., Li et al., Molecular Therapy, vol. 17 no. 12, 2067-277 December 2009). The MOI may vary from 1×10³ to 4×10⁵ vector genomes/cell, depending on virus concentration and purposes of the experiments. The above cited vectors are contemplated for the delivery and/or administration of the invention.

Zamora et al. (Am J Respir Crit Care Med Vol 183. pp 531-538, 2011) reported an example of the application of an RNA interference therapeutic to the treatment of human infectious disease and also a randomized trial of an antiviral drug in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)-infected lung transplant recipients. Zamora et al. performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial in LTX recipients with RSV respiratory tract infection. Patients were permitted to receive standard of care for RSV. Aerosolized ALN-RSV01 (0.6 mg/kg) or placebo was administered daily for 3 days. This study demonstrates that an RNAi therapeutic targeting RSV can be safely administered to LTX recipients with RSV infection. Three daily doses of ALN-RSV01 did not result in any exacerbation of respiratory tract symptoms or impairment of lung function and did not exhibit any systemic proinflammatory effects, such as induction of cytokines or CRP. Pharmacokinetics showed only low, transient systemic exposure after inhalation, consistent with preclinical animal data showing that ALN-RSV01, administered intravenously or by inhalation, is rapidly cleared from the circulation through exonuclease mediated digestion and renal excretion. The method of Zamora et al. may be applied to the nucleic acid-targeting system of the present invention and an aerosolized CRISPR Cas, for example with a dosage of 0.6 mg/kg, may be contemplated for the present invention.

Schwank et al. (Cell Stem Cell, 13:653-58, 2013) used CRISPR-Cas9 to correct a defect associated with cystic fibrosis in human stem cells. The team's target was the gene for an ion channel, cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductor receptor (CFTR). A deletion in CFTR causes the protein to misfold in cystic fibrosis patients. Using cultured intestinal stem cells developed from cell samples from two children with cystic fibrosis, Schwank et al. were able to correct the defect using CRISPR along with a donor plasmid containing the reparative sequence to be inserted. The researchers then grew the cells into intestinal “organoids,” or miniature guts, and showed that they functioned normally. In this case, about half of clonal organoids underwent the proper genetic correction.

Treating Diseases of the Muscular System

The present invention also contemplates delivering the CRISPR-Cas system described herein, e.g. Cas9 systems, to muscle(s).

Bortolanza et al. (Molecular Therapy vol. 19 no. 11, 2055-264 November 2011) shows that systemic delivery of RNA interference expression cassettes in the FRG1 mouse, after the onset of facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), led to a dose-dependent long-term FRG1 knockdown without signs of toxicity. Bortolanza et al. found that a single intravenous injection of 5×10¹² vg of rAAV6-sh1FRG1 rescues muscle histopathology and muscle function of FRG1 mice. In detail, 200 μl containing 2×10¹² or 5×10¹² vg of vector in physiological solution were injected into the tail vein using a 25-gauge Terumo syringe. The method of Bortolanza et al. may be applied to an AAV expressing CRISPR Cas and injected into humans at a dosage of about 2×10¹⁵ or 2×10¹⁶ vg of vector.

Dumonceaux et al. (Molecular Therapy vol. 18 no. 5, 881-887 May 2010) inhibit the myostatin pathway using the technique of RNA interference directed against the myostatin receptor AcvRIIb mRNA (sh-AcvRIIb). The restoration of a quasi-dystrophin was mediated by the vectorized U7 exon-skipping technique (U7-DYS). Adeno-associated vectors carrying either the sh-AcvrIIb construct alone, the U7-DYS construct alone, or a combination of both constructs were injected in the tibialis anterior (TA) muscle of dystrophic mdx mice. The injections were performed with 10¹¹ AAV viral genomes. The method of Dumonceaux et al. may be applied to an AAV expressing CRISPR Cas and injected into humans, for example, at a dosage of about 10¹⁴ to about 10¹⁵ vg of vector.

Kinouchi et al. (Gene Therapy (2008) 15, 1126-1130) report the effectiveness of in vivo siRNA delivery into skeletal muscles of normal or diseased mice through nanoparticle formation of chemically unmodified siRNAs with atelocollagen (ATCOL). ATCOL-mediated local application of siRNA targeting myostatin, a negative regulator of skeletal muscle growth, in mouse skeletal muscles or intravenously, caused a marked increase in the muscle mass within a few weeks after application. These results imply that ATCOL-mediated application of siRNAs is a powerful tool for future therapeutic use for diseases including muscular atrophy. MstsiRNAs (final concentration, 10 mM) were mixed with ATCOL (final concentration for local administration, 0.5%) (AteloGene, Kohken, Tokyo, Japan) according to the manufacturer's instructions. After anesthesia of mice (20-week-old male C57BL/6) by Nembutal (25 mg/kg, i.p.), the Mst-siRNA/ATCOL complex was injected into the masseter and biceps femoris muscles. The method of Kinouchi et al. may be applied to CRISPR Cas and injected into a human, for example, at a dosage of about 500 to 1000 ml of a 40 μM solution into the muscle. Hagstrom et al. (Molecular Therapy Vol. 10, No. 2, August 2004) describe an intravascular, nonviral methodology that enables efficient and repeatable delivery of nucleic acids to muscle cells (myofibers) throughout the limb muscles of mammals. The procedure involves the injection of naked plasmid DNA or siRNA into a distal vein of a limb that is transiently isolated by a tourniquet or blood pressure cuff. Nucleic acid delivery to myofibers is facilitated by its rapid injection in sufficient volume to enable extravasation of the nucleic acid solution into muscle tissue. High levels of transgene expression in skeletal muscle were achieved in both small and large animals with minimal toxicity. Evidence of siRNA delivery to limb muscle was also obtained. For plasmid DNA intravenous injection into a rhesus monkey, a threeway stopcock was connected to two syringe pumps (Model PHD 2000; Harvard Instruments), each loaded with a single syringe. Five minutes after a papaverine injection, pDNA (15.5 to 25.7 mg in 40-100 ml saline) was injected at a rate of 1.7 or 2.0 ml/s. This could be scaled up for plasmid DNA expressing CRISPR Cas of the present invention with an injection of about 300 to 500 mg in 800 to 2000 ml saline for a human. For adenoviral vector injections into a rat, 2×10⁹ infectious particles were injected in 3 ml of normal saline solution (NSS). This could be scaled up for an adenoviral vector expressing CRISPR Cas of the present invention with an injection of about 1×10¹³ infectious particles were injected in 10 liters of NSS for a human. For siRNA, a rat was injected into the great saphenous vein with 12.5 μg of a siRNA and a primate was injected into the great saphenous vein with 750 μg of a siRNA. This could be scaled up for a CRISPR Cas of the present invention, for example, with an injection of about 15 to about 50 mg into the great saphenous vein of a human.

See also, for example, WO2013163628 A2, Genetic Correction of Mutated Genes, published application of Duke University describes efforts to correct, for example, a frameshift mutation which causes a premature stop codon and a truncated gene product that can be corrected via nuclease mediated non-homologous end joining such as those responsible for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, (“DMD”) a recessive, fatal, X-linked disorder that results in muscle degeneration due to mutations in the dystrophin gene. The majority of dystrophin mutations that cause DMD are deletions of exons that disrupt the reading frame and cause premature translation termination in the dystrophin gene. Dystrophin is a cytoplasmic protein that provides structural stability to the dystroglycan complex of the cell membrane that is responsible for regulating muscle cell integrity and function. The dystrophin gene or “DMD gene” as used interchangeably herein is 2.2 megabases at locus Xp21. The primary transcription measures about 2,400 kb with the mature mRNA being about 14 kb. 79 exons code for the protein which is over 3500 amino acids. Exon 51 is frequently adjacent to frame-disrupting deletions in DMD patients and has been targeted in clinical trials for oligonucleotide-based exon skipping. A clinical trial for the exon 51 skipping compound eteplirsen recently reported a significant functional benefit across 48 weeks, with an average of 47% dystrophin positive fibers compared to baseline. Mutations in exon 51 are ideally suited for permanent correction by NHEJ-based genome editing.

The methods of US Patent Publication No. 20130145487 assigned to Cellectis, which relates to meganuclease variants to cleave a target sequence from the human dystrophin gene (DMD), may also be modified to for the nucleic acid-targeting system of the present invention.

Treating Diseases of the Skin

The present invention also contemplates delivering the CRISPR-Cas system described herein, e.g. Cas9 effector protein systems, to the skin.

Hickerson et al. (Molecular Therapy—Nucleic Acids (2013) 2, e129) relates to a motorized microneedle array skin delivery device for delivering self-delivery (sd)-siRNA to human and murine skin. The primary challenge to translating siRNA-based skin therapeutics to the clinic is the development of effective delivery systems. Substantial effort has been invested in a variety of skin delivery technologies with limited success. In a clinical study in which skin was treated with siRNA, the exquisite pain associated with the hypodermic needle injection precluded enrollment of additional patients in the trial, highlighting the need for improved, more “patient-friendly” (i.e., little or no pain) delivery approaches. Microneedles represent an efficient way to deliver large charged cargos including siRNAs across the primary barrier, the stratum corneum, and are generally regarded as less painful than conventional hypodermic needles. Motorized “stamp type” microneedle devices, including the motorized microneedle array (MMNA) device used by Hickerson et al., have been shown to be safe in hairless mice studies and cause little or no pain as evidenced by (i) widespread use in the cosmetic industry and (ii) limited testing in which nearly all volunteers found use of the device to be much less painful than a flushot, suggesting siRNA delivery using this device will result in much less pain than was experienced in the previous clinical trial using hypodermic needle injections. The MMNA device (marketed as Triple-M or Tri-M by Bomtech Electronic Co, Seoul, South Korea) was adapted for delivery of siRNA to mouse and human skin. sd-siRNA solution (up to 300 μl of 0.1 mg/ml RNA) was introduced into the chamber of the disposable Tri-M needle cartridge (Bomtech), which was set to a depth of 0.1 mm. For treating human skin, deidentified skin (obtained immediately following surgical procedures) was manually stretched and pinned to a cork platform before treatment. All intradermal injections were performed using an insulin syringe with a 28-gauge 0.5-inch needle. The MMNA device and method of Hickerson et al. could be used and/or adapted to deliver the CRISPR Cas of the present invention, for example, at a dosage of up to 300 μl of 0.1 mg/ml CRISPR Cas to the skin.

Leachman et al. (Molecular Therapy, vol. 18 no. 2, 442-446 February 2010) relates to a phase Ib clinical trial for treatment of a rare skin disorder pachyonychia congenita (PC), an autosomal dominant syndrome that includes a disabling plantar keratoderma, utilizing the first short-interfering RNA (siRNA)-based therapeutic for skin. This siRNA, called TD101, specifically and potently targets the keratin 6a (K6a) N171K mutant mRNA without affecting wild-type K6a mRNA.

Zheng et al. (PNAS, Jul. 24, 2012, vol. 109, no. 30, 11975-11980) show that spherical nucleic acid nanoparticle conjugates (SNA-NCs), gold cores surrounded by a dense shell of highly oriented, covalently immobilized siRNA, freely penetrate almost 100% of keratinocytes in vitro, mouse skin, and human epidermis within hours after application. Zheng et al. demonstrated that a single application of 25 nM epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) SNA-NCs for 60 h demonstrate effective gene knockdown in human skin. A similar dosage may be contemplated for CRISPR Cas immobilized in SNA-NCs for administration to the skin.

General Gene Therapy Considerations

Examples of disease-associated genes and polynucleotides and disease specific information is available from McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, Md.) and National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine (Bethesda, Md.), available on the World Wide Web.

Mutations in these genes and pathways can result in production of improper proteins or proteins in improper amounts which affect function. Further examples of genes, diseases and proteins are hereby incorporated by reference from U.S. Provisional application 61/736,527 filed Dec. 12, 2012. Such genes, proteins and pathways may be the target polynucleotide of a CRISPR complex of the present invention.

Embodiments of the invention also relate to methods and compositions related to knocking out genes, amplifying genes and repairing particular mutations associated with DNA repeat instability and neurological disorders (Robert D. Wells, Tetsuo Ashizawa, Genetic Instabilities and Neurological Diseases, Second Edition, Academic Press, Oct. 13, 2011—Medical). Specific aspects of tandem repeat sequences have been found to be responsible for more than twenty human diseases (New insights into repeat instability: role of RNA•DNA hybrids. McIvor E I, Polak U, Napierala M. RNA Biol. 2010 September-October; 7(5):551-8). The present effector protein systems may be harnessed to correct these defects of genomic instability.

Several further aspects of the invention relate to correcting defects associated with a wide range of genetic diseases which are further described on the website of the National Institutes of Health under the topic subsection Genetic Disorders (website at health.nih.gov/topic/GeneticDisorders). The genetic brain diseases may include but are not limited to Adrenoleukodystrophy, Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum, Aicardi Syndrome, Alpers' Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, Barth Syndrome, Batten Disease, CADASIL, Cerebellar Degeneration, Fabry's Disease, Gerstmann-Straussler-Scheinker Disease, Huntington's Disease and other Triplet Repeat Disorders, Leigh's Disease, Lesch-Nyhan Syndrome, Menkes Disease, Mitochondrial Myopathies and NINDS Colpocephaly. These diseases are further described on the website of the National Institutes of Health under the subsection Genetic Brain Disorders.

Exemplary Methods of Using of CRISPR Cas System

The invention provides a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition, or one or more polynucleotides encoding components of said composition, or vector or delivery systems comprising one or more polynucleotides encoding components of said composition for use in a modifying a target cell in vivo, ex vivo or in vitro and, may be conducted in a manner alters the cell such that once modified the progeny or cell line of the CRISPR modified cell retains the altered phenotype. The modified cells and progeny may be part of a multi-cellular organism such as a plant or animal with ex vivo or in vivo application of CRISPR system to desired cell types. The CRISPR invention may be a therapeutic method of treatment. The therapeutic method of treatment may comprise gene or genome editing, or gene therapy.

Modifying a Target with CRISPR-Cas System or Complex

In one aspect, the invention provides for methods of modifying a target polynucleotide in a eukaryotic cell, which may be in vivo, ex vivo or in vitro. In some embodiments, the method comprises sampling a cell or population of cells from a human or non-human animal, and modifying the cell or cells. Culturing may occur at any stage ex vivo. The cell or cells may even be re-introduced into the non-human animal or plant. For re-introduced cells it is particularly preferred that the cells are stem cells.

In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a CRISPR complex to bind to the target polynucleotide to effect cleavage of said target polynucleotide thereby modifying the target polynucleotide, wherein the CRISPR complex comprises a CRISPR enzyme complexed with a guide sequence hybridized or hybridizable to a target sequence within said target polynucleotide, wherein said guide sequence is linked to a tracr mate sequence which in turn hybridizes to a tracr sequence.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method of modifying expression of a polynucleotide in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the method comprises allowing a CRISPR complex to bind to the polynucleotide such that said binding results in increased or decreased expression of said polynucleotide; wherein the CRISPR complex comprises a CRISPR enzyme complexed with a guide sequence hybridized or hybridizable to a target sequence within said polynucleotide, wherein said guide sequence is linked to a tracr mate sequence which in turn hybridizes to a tracr sequence. Similar considerations and conditions apply as above for methods of modifying a target polynucleotide. In fact, these sampling, culturing and re-introduction options apply across the aspects of the present invention.

Indeed, in any aspect of the invention, the CRISPR complex may comprise a CRISPR enzyme complexed with a guide sequence hybridized or hybridizable to a target sequence, wherein said guide sequence may be linked to a tracr mate sequence which in turn may hybridize to a tracr sequence.

Similar considerations and conditions apply as above for methods of modifying a target polynucleotide. Thus in any of the non-naturally-occurring CRISPR enzymes described herein comprise at least one modification and whereby the enzyme has certain improved capabilities. In particular, any of the enzymes are capable of forming a CRISPR complex with a guide RNA. When such a complex forms, the guide RNA is capable of binding to a target polynucleotide sequence and the enzyme is capable of modifying a target locus. In addition, the enzyme in the CRISPR complex has reduced capability of modifying one or more off-target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme.

In addition, the modified CRISPR enzymes described herein encompass enzymes whereby in the CRISPR complex the enzyme has increased capability of modifying the one or more target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme. Such function may be provided separate to or provided in combination with the above-described function of reduced capability of modifying one or more off-target loci. Any such enzymes may be provided with any of the further modifications to the CRISPR enzyme as described herein, such as in combination with any activity provided by one or more associated heterologous functional domains, any further mutations to reduce nuclease activity and the like.

In advantageous embodiments of the invention, the modified CRISPR enzyme is provided with reduced capability of modifying one or more off-target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme and increased capability of modifying the one or more target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme. In combination with further modifications to the enzyme, significantly enhanced specificity may be achieved. For example, combination of such advantageous embodiments with one or more additional mutations is provided wherein the one or more additional mutations are in one or more catalytically active domains. Such further catalytic mutations may confer nickase functionality as described in detail elsewhere herein. In such enzymes, enhanced specificity may be achieved due to an improved specificity in terms of enzyme activity.

Modifications to reduce off-target effects and/or enhance on-target effects as described above may be made to amino acid residues located in a positively-charged region/groove situated between the RuvC-III and HNH domains. It will be appreciated that any of the functional effects described above may be achieved by modification of amino acids within the aforementioned groove but also by modification of amino acids adjacent to or outside of that groove.

Additional functionalities which may be engineered into modified CRISPR enzymes as described herein include the following. 1. modified CRISPR enzymes that disrupt DNA:protein interactions without affecting protein tertiary or secondary structure. This includes residues that contact any part of the RNA:DNA duplex. 2. modified CRISPR enzymes that weaken intra-protein interactions holding Cas9 in conformation essential for nuclease cutting in response to DNA binding (on or off target). For example: a modification that mildly inhibits, but still allows, the nuclease conformation of the HNH domain (positioned at the scissile phosphate). 3. modified CRISPR enzymes that strengthen intra-protein interactions holding Cas9 in a conformation inhibiting nuclease activity in response to DNA binding (on or off targets). For example: a modification that stabilizes the HNH domain in a conformation away from the scissile phosphate. Any such additional functional enhancement may be provided in combination with any other modification to the CRISPR enzyme as described in detail elsewhere herein.

Any of the herein described improved functionalities may be made to any CRISPR enzyme, such as a Cas9 enzyme. Cas9 enzymes described herein are derived from Cas9 enzymes from S. pyogenes and S. aureus. However, it will be appreciated that any of the functionalities described herein may be engineered into Cas9 enzymes from other orthologs, including chimeric enzymes comprising fragments from multiple orthologs.

Nucleic Acids, Amino Acids and Proteins, Regulatory Sequences, Vectors, Etc.

The invention uses nucleic acids to bind target DNA sequences. This is advantageous as nucleic acids are much easier and cheaper to produce than proteins, and the specificity can be varied according to the length of the stretch where homology is sought. Complex 3-D positioning of multiple fingers, for example is not required. The terms “polynucleotide”, “nucleotide”, “nucleotide sequence”, “nucleic acid” and “oligonucleotide” are used interchangeably. They refer to a polymeric form of nucleotides of any length, either deoxyribonucleotides or ribonucleotides, or analogs thereof. Polynucleotides may have any three dimensional structure, and may perform any function, known or unknown. The following are non-limiting examples of polynucleotides: coding or non-coding regions of a gene or gene fragment, loci (locus) defined from linkage analysis, exons, introns, messenger RNA (mRNA), transfer RNA, ribosomal RNA, short interfering RNA (siRNA), short-hairpin RNA (shRNA), micro-RNA (miRNA), ribozymes, cDNA, recombinant polynucleotides, branched polynucleotides, plasmids, vectors, isolated DNA of any sequence, isolated RNA of any sequence, nucleic acid probes, and primers. The term also encompasses nucleic-acid-like structures with synthetic backbones, see, e.g., Eckstein, 1991; Baserga et al., 1992; Milligan, 1993; WO 97/03211; WO 96/39154; Mata, 1997; Strauss-Soukup, 1997; and Samstag, 1996. A polynucleotide may comprise one or more modified nucleotides, such as methylated nucleotides and nucleotide analogs. If present, modifications to the nucleotide structure may be imparted before or after assembly of the polymer. The sequence of nucleotides may be interrupted by non-nucleotide components. A polynucleotide may be further modified after polymerization, such as by conjugation with a labeling component. As used herein the term “wild type” is a term of the art understood by skilled persons and means the typical form of an organism, strain, gene or characteristic as it occurs in nature as distinguished from mutant or variant forms. A “wild type” can be a base line. As used herein the term “variant” should be taken to mean the exhibition of qualities that have a pattern that deviates from what occurs in nature. The terms “non-naturally occurring” or “engineered” are used interchangeably and indicate the involvement of the hand of man. The terms, when referring to nucleic acid molecules or polypeptides mean that the nucleic acid molecule or the polypeptide is at least substantially free from at least one other component with which they are naturally associated in nature and as found in nature. “Complementarity” refers to the ability of a nucleic acid to form hydrogen bond(s) with another nucleic acid sequence by either traditional Watson-Crick base pairing or other non-traditional types. A percent complementarity indicates the percentage of residues in a nucleic acid molecule which can form hydrogen bonds (e.g., Watson-Crick base pairing) with a second nucleic acid sequence (e.g., 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 out of 10 being 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, and 100% complementary). “Perfectly complementary” means that all the contiguous residues of a nucleic acid sequence will hydrogen bond with the same number of contiguous residues in a second nucleic acid sequence. “Substantially complementary” as used herein refers to a degree of complementarity that is at least 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% over a region of 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or more nucleotides, or refers to two nucleic acids that hybridize under stringent conditions. As used herein, “stringent conditions” for hybridization refer to conditions under which a nucleic acid having complementarity to a target sequence predominantly hybridizes with the target sequence, and substantially does not hybridize to non-target sequences. Stringent conditions are generally sequence-dependent, and vary depending on a number of factors. In general, the longer the sequence, the higher the temperature at which the sequence specifically hybridizes to its target sequence. Non-limiting examples of stringent conditions are described in detail in Tijssen (1993), Laboratory Techniques In Biochemistry And Molecular Biology-Hybridization With Nucleic Acid Probes Part I, Second Chapter “Overview of principles of hybridization and the strategy of nucleic acid probe assay”, Elsevier, N.Y. Where reference is made to a polynucleotide sequence, then complementary or partially complementary sequences are also envisaged. These are preferably capable of hybridising to the reference sequence under highly stringent conditions. Generally, in order to maximize the hybridization rate, relatively low-stringency hybridization conditions are selected: about 20 to 25° C. lower than the thermal melting point (T_(m)). The T_(m) is the temperature at which 50% of specific target sequence hybridizes to a perfectly complementary probe in solution at a defined ionic strength and pH. Generally, in order to require at least about 85% nucleotide complementarity of hybridized sequences, highly stringent washing conditions are selected to be about 5 to 15° C. lower than the T_(m). In order to require at least about 70% nucleotide complementarity of hybridized sequences, moderately-stringent washing conditions are selected to be about 15 to 30° C. lower than the T_(m). Highly permissive (very low stringency) washing conditions may be as low as 50° C. below the T_(m), allowing a high level of mis-matching between hybridized sequences. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other physical and chemical parameters in the hybridization and wash stages can also be altered to affect the outcome of a detectable hybridization signal from a specific level of homology between target and probe sequences. Preferred highly stringent conditions comprise incubation in 50% formamide, 5×SSC, and 1% SDS at 42° C., or incubation in 5×SSC and 1% SDS at 65° C., with wash in 0.2×SSC and 0.1% SDS at 65° C. “Hybridization” refers to a reaction in which one or more polynucleotides react to form a complex that is stabilized via hydrogen bonding between the bases of the nucleotide residues. The hydrogen bonding may occur by Watson Crick base pairing, Hoogstein binding, or in any other sequence specific manner. The complex may comprise two strands forming a duplex structure, three or more strands forming a multi stranded complex, a single self-hybridizing strand, or any combination of these. A hybridization reaction may constitute a step in a more extensive process, such as the initiation of PCR, or the cleavage of a polynucleotide by an enzyme. A sequence capable of hybridizing with a given sequence is referred to as the “complement” of the given sequence. As used herein, the term “genomic locus” or “locus” (plural loci) is the specific location of a gene or DNA sequence on a chromosome. A “gene” refers to stretches of DNA or RNA that encode a polypeptide or an RNA chain that has functional role to play in an organism and hence is the molecular unit of heredity in living organisms. For the purpose of this invention it may be considered that genes include regions which regulate the production of the gene product, whether or not such regulatory sequences are adjacent to coding and/or transcribed sequences. Accordingly, a gene includes, but is not necessarily limited to, promoter sequences, terminators, translational regulatory sequences such as ribosome binding sites and internal ribosome entry sites, enhancers, silencers, insulators, boundary elements, replication origins, matrix attachment sites and locus control regions. As used herein, “expression of a genomic locus” or “gene expression” is the process by which information from a gene is used in the synthesis of a functional gene product. The products of gene expression are often proteins, but in non-protein coding genes such as rRNA genes or tRNA genes, the product is functional RNA. The process of gene expression is used by all known life—eukaryotes (including multicellular organisms), prokaryotes (bacteria and archaea) and viruses to generate functional products to survive. As used herein “expression” of a gene or nucleic acid encompasses not only cellular gene expression, but also the transcription and translation of nucleic acid(s) in cloning systems and in any other context. As used herein, “expression” also refers to the process by which a polynucleotide is transcribed from a DNA template (such as into and mRNA or other RNA transcript) and/or the process by which a transcribed mRNA is subsequently translated into peptides, polypeptides, or proteins. Transcripts and encoded polypeptides may be collectively referred to as “gene product.” If the polynucleotide is derived from genomic DNA, expression may include splicing of the mRNA in a eukaryotic cell. The terms “polypeptide”, “peptide” and “protein” are used interchangeably herein to refer to polymers of amino acids of any length. The polymer may be linear or branched, it may comprise modified amino acids, and it may be interrupted by non amino acids. The terms also encompass an amino acid polymer that has been modified; for example, disulfide bond formation, glycosylation, lipidation, acetylation, phosphorylation, or any other manipulation, such as conjugation with a labeling component. As used herein the term “amino acid” includes natural and/or unnatural or synthetic amino acids, including glycine and both the D or L optical isomers, and amino acid analogs and peptidomimetics. As used herein, the term “domain” or “protein domain” refers to a part of a protein sequence that may exist and function independently of the rest of the protein chain. As described in aspects of the invention, sequence identity is related to sequence homology. Homology comparisons may be conducted by eye, or more usually, with the aid of readily available sequence comparison programs. These commercially available computer programs may calculate percent (%) homology between two or more sequences and may also calculate the sequence identity shared by two or more amino acid or nucleic acid sequences.

In aspects of the invention the term “guide RNA”, refers to the polynucleotide sequence comprising one or more of a putative or identified tracr sequence and a putative or identified crRNA sequence or guide sequence. In particular embodiments, the “guide RNA” comprises a putative or identified crRNA sequence or guide sequence. In further embodiments, the guide RNA does not comprise a putative or identified tracr sequence.

As used herein the term “wild type” is a term of the art understood by skilled persons and means the typical form of an organism, strain, gene or characteristic as it occurs in nature as distinguished from mutant or variant forms. A “wild type” can be a base line.

As used herein the term “variant” should be taken to mean the exhibition of qualities that have a pattern that deviates from what occurs in nature.

The terms “non-naturally occurring” or “engineered” are used interchangeably and indicate the involvement of the hand of man. The terms, when referring to nucleic acid molecules or polypeptides mean that the nucleic acid molecule or the polypeptide is at least substantially free from at least one other component with which they are naturally associated in nature and as found in nature. In all aspects and embodiments, whether they include these terms or not, it will be understood that, preferably, the may be optional and thus preferably included or not preferably not included. Furthermore, the terms “non-naturally occurring” and “engineered” may be used interchangeably and so can therefore be used alone or in combination and one or other may replace mention of both together. In particular, “engineered” is preferred in place of “non-naturally occurring” or “non-naturally occurring and/or engineered.”

Sequence homologies may be generated by any of a number of computer programs known in the art, for example BLAST or FASTA, etc. A suitable computer program for carrying out such an alignment is the GCG Wisconsin Bestfit package (University of Wisconsin, U.S.A; Devereux et al., 1984, Nucleic Acids Research 12:387). Examples of other software than may perform sequence comparisons include, but are not limited to, the BLAST package (see Ausubel et al., 1999 ibid—Chapter 18), FASTA (Atschul et al., 1990, J. Mol. Biol., 403-410) and the GENEWORKS suite of comparison tools. Both BLAST and FASTA are available for offline and online searching (see Ausubel et al., 1999 ibid, pages 7-58 to 7-60). However it is preferred to use the GCG Bestfit program. Percentage (%) sequence homology may be calculated over contiguous sequences, i.e., one sequence is aligned with the other sequence and each amino acid or nucleotide in one sequence is directly compared with the corresponding amino acid or nucleotide in the other sequence, one residue at a time. This is called an “ungapped” alignment. Typically, such ungapped alignments are performed only over a relatively short number of residues. Although this is a very simple and consistent method, it fails to take into consideration that, for example, in an otherwise identical pair of sequences, one insertion or deletion may cause the following amino acid residues to be put out of alignment, thus potentially resulting in a large reduction in % homology when a global alignment is performed. Consequently, most sequence comparison methods are designed to produce optimal alignments that take into consideration possible insertions and deletions without unduly penalizing the overall homology or identity score. This is achieved by inserting “gaps” in the sequence alignment to try to maximize local homology or identity. However, these more complex methods assign “gap penalties” to each gap that occurs in the alignment so that, for the same number of identical amino acids, a sequence alignment with as few gaps as possible—reflecting higher relatedness between the two compared sequences—may achieve a higher score than one with many gaps. “Affinity gap costs” are typically used that charge a relatively high cost for the existence of a gap and a smaller penalty for each subsequent residue in the gap. This is the most commonly used gap scoring system. High gap penalties may, of course, produce optimized alignments with fewer gaps. Most alignment programs allow the gap penalties to be modified. However, it is preferred to use the default values when using such software for sequence comparisons. For example, when using the GCG Wisconsin Bestfit package the default gap penalty for amino acid sequences is −12 for a gap and −4 for each extension. Calculation of maximum % homology therefore first requires the production of an optimal alignment, taking into consideration gap penalties. A suitable computer program for carrying out such an alignment is the GCG Wisconsin Bestfit package (Devereux et al., 1984 Nuc. Acids Research 12 p387). Examples of other software than may perform sequence comparisons include, but are not limited to, the BLAST package (see Ausubel et al., 1999 Short Protocols in Molecular Biology, 4^(th) Ed. —Chapter 18), FASTA (Altschul et al., 1990 J Mol. Biol. 403-410) and the GENEWORKS suite of comparison tools. Both BLAST and FASTA are available for offline and online searching (see Ausubel et al., 1999, Short Protocols in Molecular Biology, pages 7-58 to 7-60). However, for some applications, it is preferred to use the GCG Bestfit program. A new tool, called BLAST 2 Sequences is also available for comparing protein and nucleotide sequences (see FEMS Microbiol Lett. 1999 174(2): 247-50; FEMS Microbiol Lett. 1999 177(1): 187-8 and the website of the National Center for Biotechnology information at the website of the National Institutes for Health). Although the final % homology may be measured in terms of identity, the alignment process itself is typically not based on an all-or-nothing pair comparison. Instead, a scaled similarity score matrix is generally used that assigns scores to each pair-wise comparison based on chemical similarity or evolutionary distance. An example of such a matrix commonly used is the BLOSUM62 matrix—the default matrix for the BLAST suite of programs. GCG Wisconsin programs generally use either the public default values or a custom symbol comparison table, if supplied (see user manual for further details). For some applications, it is preferred to use the public default values for the GCG package, or in the case of other software, the default matrix, such as BLOSUM62. Alternatively, percentage homologies may be calculated using the multiple alignment feature in DNASIS™ (Hitachi Software), based on an algorithm, analogous to CLUSTAL (Higgins D G & Sharp P M (1988), Gene 73(1), 237-244). Once the software has produced an optimal alignment, it is possible to calculate % homology, preferably % sequence identity. The software typically does this as part of the sequence comparison and generates a numerical result. The sequences may also have deletions, insertions or substitutions of amino acid residues which produce a silent change and result in a functionally equivalent substance. Deliberate amino acid substitutions may be made on the basis of similarity in amino acid properties (such as polarity, charge, solubility, hydrophobicity, hydrophilicity, and/or the amphipathic nature of the residues) and it is therefore useful to group amino acids together in functional groups. Amino acids may be grouped together based on the properties of their side chains alone. However, it is more useful to include mutation data as well. The sets of amino acids thus derived are likely to be conserved for structural reasons. These sets may be described in the form of a Venn diagram (Livingstone C. D. and Barton G. J. (1993) “Protein sequence alignments: a strategy for the hierarchical analysis of residue conservation” Comput. Appl. Biosci. 9: 745-756) (Taylor W. R. (1986) “The classification of amino acid conservation” J. Theor. Biol. 119; 205-218). Conservative substitutions may be made, for example according to the table below which describes a generally accepted Venn diagram grouping of amino acids.

Set Sub-set Hydrophobic FWYHKMILVAGC Aromatic FWYH Aliphatic ILV Polar WYHKREDCSTNQ Charged HKRED Positively HKR charged Negatively ED charged Small VCAGSPTND Tiny AGS

The terms “subject,” “individual,” and “patient” are used interchangeably herein to refer to a vertebrate, preferably a mammal, more preferably a human. Mammals include, but are not limited to, murines, simians, humans, farm animals, sport animals, and pets. Tissues, cells and their progeny of a biological entity obtained in vivo or cultured in vitro are also encompassed.

The terms “therapeutic agent”, “therapeutic capable agent” or “treatment agent” are used interchangeably and refer to a molecule or compound that confers some beneficial effect upon administration to a subject. The beneficial effect includes enablement of diagnostic determinations; amelioration of a disease, symptom, disorder, or pathological condition; reducing or preventing the onset of a disease, symptom, disorder or condition; and generally counteracting a disease, symptom, disorder or pathological condition.

As used herein, “treatment” or “treating,” or “palliating” or “ameliorating” are used interchangeably. These terms refer to an approach for obtaining beneficial or desired results including but not limited to a therapeutic benefit and/or a prophylactic benefit. By therapeutic benefit is meant any therapeutically relevant improvement in or effect on one or more diseases, conditions, or symptoms under treatment. For prophylactic benefit, the compositions may be administered to a subject at risk of developing a particular disease, condition, or symptom, or to a subject reporting one or more of the physiological symptoms of a disease, even though the disease, condition, or symptom may not have yet been manifested.

The term “effective amount” or “therapeutically effective amount” refers to the amount of an agent that is sufficient to effect beneficial or desired results. The therapeutically effective amount may vary depending upon one or more of: the subject and disease condition being treated, the weight and age of the subject, the severity of the disease condition, the manner of administration and the like, which can readily be determined by one of ordinary skill in the art. The term also applies to a dose that will provide an image for detection by any one of the imaging methods described herein. The specific dose may vary depending on one or more of: the particular agent chosen, the dosing regimen to be followed, whether it is administered in combination with other compounds, timing of administration, the tissue to be imaged, and the physical delivery system in which it is carried.

The practice of the present invention employs, unless otherwise indicated, conventional techniques of immunology, biochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, cell biology, genomics and recombinant DNA, which are within the skill of the art. See Sambrook, Fritsch and Maniatis, MOLECULAR CLONING: A LABORATORY MANUAL, 2nd edition (1989); CURRENT PROTOCOLS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (F. M. Ausubel, et al. eds., (1987)); the series METHODS IN ENZYMOLOGY (Academic Press, Inc.): PCR 2: A PRACTICAL APPROACH (M. J. MacPherson, B. D. Hames and G. R. Taylor eds. (1995)), Harlow and Lane, eds. (1988) ANTIBODIES, A LABORATORY MANUAL, and ANIMAL CELL CULTURE (R. I. Freshney, ed. (1987)).

Several aspects of the invention relate to vector systems comprising one or more vectors, or vectors as such. Vectors can be designed for expression of CRISPR transcripts (e.g. nucleic acid transcripts, proteins, or enzymes) in prokaryotic or eukaryotic cells. For example, CRISPR transcripts can be expressed in bacterial cells such as Escherichia coli, insect cells (using baculovirus expression vectors), yeast cells, or mammalian cells. Suitable host cells are discussed further in Goeddel, GENE EXPRESSION TECHNOLOGY: METHODS IN ENZYMOLOGY 185, Academic Press, San Diego, Calif. (1990). Alternatively, the recombinant expression vector can be transcribed and translated in vitro, for example using T7 promoter regulatory sequences and T7 polymerase.

Embodiments of the invention include sequences (both polynucleotide or polypeptide) which may comprise homologous substitution (substitution and replacement are both used herein to mean the interchange of an existing amino acid residue or nucleotide, with an alternative residue or nucleotide) that may occur i.e., like-for-like substitution in the case of amino acids such as basic for basic, acidic for acidic, polar for polar, etc. Non-homologous substitution may also occur i.e., from one class of residue to another or alternatively involving the inclusion of unnatural amino acids such as ornithine (hereinafter referred to as Z), diaminobutyric acid ornithine (hereinafter referred to as B), norleucine ornithine (hereinafter referred to as O), pyriylalanine, thienylalanine, naphthylalanine and phenylglycine. Variant amino acid sequences may include suitable spacer groups that may be inserted between any two amino acid residues of the sequence including alkyl groups such as methyl, ethyl or propyl groups in addition to amino acid spacers such as glycine or β-alanine residues. A further form of variation, which involves the presence of one or more amino acid residues in peptoid form, may be well understood by those skilled in the art. For the avoidance of doubt, “the peptoid form” is used to refer to variant amino acid residues wherein the α-carbon substituent group is on the residue's nitrogen atom rather than the α-carbon. Processes for preparing peptides in the peptoid form are known in the art, for example Simon R J et al., PNAS (1992) 89(20), 9367-9371 and Horwell D C, Trends Biotechnol. (1995) 13(4), 132-134.

Homology modelling: Corresponding residues in other Cas9 orthologs can be identified by the methods of Zhang et al., 2012 (Nature; 490(7421): 556-60) and Chen et al., 2015 (PLoS Comput Biol; 11(5): e1004248)—a computational protein-protein interaction (PPI) method to predict interactions mediated by domain-motif interfaces. PrePPI (Predicting PPI), a structure based PPI prediction method, combines structural evidence with non-structural evidence using a Bayesian statistical framework. The method involves taking a pair a query proteins and using structural alignment to identify structural representatives that correspond to either their experimentally determined structures or homology models. Structural alignment is further used to identify both close and remote structural neighbors by considering global and local geometric relationships. Whenever two neighbors of the structural representatives form a complex reported in the Protein Data Bank, this defines a template for modelling the interaction between the two query proteins. Models of the complex are created by superimposing the representative structures on their corresponding structural neighbor in the template. This approach is further described in Dey et al., 2013 (Prot Sci; 22: 359-66).

For purpose of this invention, amplification means any method employing a primer and a polymerase capable of replicating a target sequence with reasonable fidelity. Amplification may be carried out by natural or recombinant DNA polymerases such as TaqGold™, T7 DNA polymerase, Klenow fragment of E. coli DNA polymerase, and reverse transcriptase. A preferred amplification method is PCR.

In certain aspects the invention involves vectors. A used herein, a “vector” is a tool that allows or facilitates the transfer of an entity from one environment to another. It is a replicon, such as a plasmid, phage, or cosmid, into which another DNA segment may be inserted so as to bring about the replication of the inserted segment. Generally, a vector is capable of replication when associated with the proper control elements. In general, the term “vector” refers to a nucleic acid molecule capable of transporting another nucleic acid to which it has been linked. Vectors include, but are not limited to, nucleic acid molecules that are single-stranded, double-stranded, or partially double-stranded; nucleic acid molecules that comprise one or more free ends, no free ends (e.g. circular); nucleic acid molecules that comprise DNA, RNA, or both; and other varieties of polynucleotides known in the art. One type of vector is a “plasmid,” which refers to a circular double stranded DNA loop into which additional DNA segments can be inserted, such as by standard molecular cloning techniques. Another type of vector is a viral vector, wherein virally-derived DNA or RNA sequences are present in the vector for packaging into a virus (e.g. retroviruses, replication defective retroviruses, adenoviruses, replication defective adenoviruses, and adeno-associated viruses (AAVs)). Viral vectors also include polynucleotides carried by a virus for transfection into a host cell. Certain vectors are capable of autonomous replication in a host cell into which they are introduced (e.g. bacterial vectors having a bacterial origin of replication and episomal mammalian vectors). Other vectors (e.g., non-episomal mammalian vectors) are integrated into the genome of a host cell upon introduction into the host cell, and thereby are replicated along with the host genome. Moreover, certain vectors are capable of directing the expression of genes to which they are operatively-linked. Such vectors are referred to herein as “expression vectors.” Common expression vectors of utility in recombinant DNA techniques are often in the form of plasmids.

Recombinant expression vectors can comprise a nucleic acid of the invention in a form suitable for expression of the nucleic acid in a host cell, which means that the recombinant expression vectors include one or more regulatory elements, which may be selected on the basis of the host cells to be used for expression, that is operatively-linked to the nucleic acid sequence to be expressed. Within a recombinant expression vector, “operably linked” is intended to mean that the nucleotide sequence of interest is linked to the regulatory element(s) in a manner that allows for expression of the nucleotide sequence (e.g. in an in vitro transcription/translation system or in a host cell when the vector is introduced into the host cell). With regards to recombination and cloning methods, mention is made of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/815,730, published Sep. 2, 2004 as US 2004-0171156 A1, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Aspects of the invention relate to bicistronic vectors for chimeric RNA and Cas9. Bicistronic expression vectors for chimeric RNA and Cas9 are preferred. In general and particularly in this embodiment Cas9 is preferably driven by the CBh promoter. The chimeric RNA may preferably be driven by a Pol III promoter, such as a U6 promoter. Ideally the two are combined. The chimeric guide RNA typically consists of a 20 bp guide sequence (Ns) and this may be joined to the tracr sequence (running from the first “U” of the lower strand to the end of the transcript). The tracr sequence may be truncated at various positions as indicated. The guide and tracr sequences are separated by the tracr-mate sequence, which may be GUUUUAGAGCUA (SEQ ID NO: 54). This may be followed by the loop sequence GAAA as shown. Both of these are preferred examples. Applicants have demonstrated Cas9-mediated indels at the human EMX1 and PVALB loci by SURVEYOR assays. ChiRNAs are indicated by their “+n” designation, and crRNA refers to a hybrid RNA where guide and tracr sequences are expressed as separate transcripts. Throughout this application, chimeric RNA may also be called single guide, or synthetic guide RNA (sgRNA).

In some embodiments, a loop in the guide RNA is provided. This may be a stem loop or a tetra loop. The loop is preferably GAAA, but it is not limited to this sequence or indeed to being only 4 bp in length. Indeed, preferred loop forming sequences for use in hairpin structures are four nucleotides in length, and most preferably have the sequence GAAA. However, longer or shorter loop sequences may be used, as may alternative sequences. The sequences preferably include a nucleotide triplet (for example, AAA), and an additional nucleotide (for example C or G). Examples of loop forming sequences include CAAA and AAAG. In practicing any of the methods disclosed herein, a suitable vector can be introduced to a cell or an embryo via one or more methods known in the art, including without limitation, microinjection, electroporation, sonoporation, biolistics, calcium phosphate-mediated transfection, cationic transfection, liposome transfection, dendrimer transfection, heat shock transfection, nucleofection transfection, magnetofection, lipofection, impalefection, optical transfection, proprietary agent-enhanced uptake of nucleic acids, and delivery via liposomes, immunoliposomes, virosomes, or artificial virions. In some methods, the vector is introduced into an embryo by microinjection. The vector or vectors may be microinjected into the nucleus or the cytoplasm of the embryo. In some methods, the vector or vectors may be introduced into a cell by nucleofection.

The term “regulatory element” is intended to include promoters, enhancers, internal ribosomal entry sites (IRES), and other expression control elements (e.g. transcription termination signals, such as polyadenylation signals and poly-U sequences). Such regulatory elements are described, for example, in Goeddel, GENE EXPRESSION TECHNOLOGY: METHODS IN ENZYMOLOGY 185, Academic Press, San Diego, Calif. (1990). Regulatory elements include those that direct constitutive expression of a nucleotide sequence in many types of host cell and those that direct expression of the nucleotide sequence only in certain host cells (e.g., tissue-specific regulatory sequences). A tissue-specific promoter may direct expression primarily in a desired tissue of interest, such as muscle, neuron, bone, skin, blood, specific organs (e.g. liver, pancreas), or particular cell types (e.g. lymphocytes). Regulatory elements may also direct expression in a temporal-dependent manner, such as in a cell-cycle dependent or developmental stage-dependent manner, which may or may not also be tissue or cell-type specific. In some embodiments, a vector comprises one or more pol III promoter (e.g. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more pol III promoters), one or more pol II promoters (e.g. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more pol II promoters), one or more pol I promoters (e.g. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more pol I promoters), or combinations thereof. Examples of pol III promoters include, but are not limited to, U6 and H1 promoters. Examples of pol II promoters include, but are not limited to, the retroviral Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) LTR promoter (optionally with the RSV enhancer), the cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter (optionally with the CMV enhancer) [see, e.g., Boshart et al, Cell, 41:521-530 (1985)], the SV40 promoter, the dihydrofolate reductase promoter, the β-actin promoter, the phosphoglycerol kinase (PGK) promoter, and the EF1α promoter. Also encompassed by the term “regulatory element” are enhancer elements, such as WPRE; CMV enhancers; the R-U5′ segment in LTR of HTLV-I (Mol. Cell. Biol., Vol. 8(1), p. 466-472, 1988); SV40 enhancer; and the intron sequence between exons 2 and 3 of rabbit β-globin (Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA., Vol. 78(3), p. 1527-31, 1981). It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the design of the expression vector can depend on such factors as the choice of the host cell to be transformed, the level of expression desired, etc. A vector can be introduced into host cells to thereby produce transcripts, proteins, or peptides, including fusion proteins or peptides, encoded by nucleic acids as described herein (e.g., clustered regularly interspersed short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) transcripts, proteins, enzymes, mutant forms thereof, fusion proteins thereof, etc.). With regards to regulatory sequences, mention is made of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/491,026, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. With regards to promoters, mention is made of PCT publication WO 2011/028929 and U.S. application Ser. No. 12/511,940, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

Vectors can be designed for expression of CRISPR transcripts (e.g. nucleic acid transcripts, proteins, or enzymes) in prokaryotic or eukaryotic cells. For example, CRISPR transcripts can be expressed in bacterial cells such as Escherichia coli, insect cells (using baculovirus expression vectors), yeast cells, or mammalian cells. Suitable host cells are discussed further in Goeddel, GENE EXPRESSION TECHNOLOGY: METHODS IN ENZYMOLOGY 185, Academic Press, San Diego, Calif. (1990). Alternatively, the recombinant expression vector can be transcribed and translated in vitro, for example using T7 promoter regulatory sequences and T7 polymerase.

Vectors may be introduced and propagated in a prokaryote or prokaryotic cell. In some embodiments, a prokaryote is used to amplify copies of a vector to be introduced into a eukaryotic cell or as an intermediate vector in the production of a vector to be introduced into a eukaryotic cell (e.g. amplifying a plasmid as part of a viral vector packaging system). In some embodiments, a prokaryote is used to amplify copies of a vector and express one or more nucleic acids, such as to provide a source of one or more proteins for delivery to a host cell or host organism. Expression of proteins in prokaryotes is most often carried out in Escherichia coli with vectors containing constitutive or inducible promoters directing the expression of either fusion or non-fusion proteins. Fusion vectors add a number of amino acids to a protein encoded therein, such as to the amino terminus of the recombinant protein. Such fusion vectors may serve one or more purposes, such as: (i) to increase expression of recombinant protein; (ii) to increase the solubility of the recombinant protein; and (iii) to aid in the purification of the recombinant protein by acting as a ligand in affinity purification. Often, in fusion expression vectors, a proteolytic cleavage site is introduced at the junction of the fusion moiety and the recombinant protein to enable separation of the recombinant protein from the fusion moiety subsequent to purification of the fusion protein. Such enzymes, and their cognate recognition sequences, include Factor Xa, thrombin and enterokinase. Example fusion expression vectors include pGEX (Pharmacia Biotech Inc; Smith and Johnson, 1988. Gene 67: 31-40), pMAL (New England Biolabs, Beverly, Mass.) and pRIT5 (Pharmacia, Piscataway, N.J.) that fuse glutathione S-transferase (GST), maltose E binding protein, or protein A, respectively, to the target recombinant protein. Examples of suitable inducible non-fusion E. coli expression vectors include pTrc (Amrann et al., (1988) Gene 69:301-315) and pET 11d (Studier et al., GENE EXPRESSION TECHNOLOGY: METHODS IN ENZYMOLOGY 185, Academic Press, San Diego, Calif. (1990) 60-89). In some embodiments, a vector is a yeast expression vector. Examples of vectors for expression in yeast Saccharomyces cerivisae include pYepSec1 (Baldari, et al., 1987. EMBO J. 6: 229-234), pMFa (Kuijan and Herskowitz, 1982. Cell 30: 933-943), pJRY88 (Schultz et al., 1987. Gene 54: 113-123), pYES2 (Invitrogen Corporation, San Diego, Calif.), and picZ (InVitrogen Corp, San Diego, Calif.). In some embodiments, a vector drives protein expression in insect cells using baculovirus expression vectors. Baculovirus vectors available for expression of proteins in cultured insect cells (e.g., SF9 cells) include the pAc series (Smith, et al., 1983. Mol. Cell. Biol. 3: 2156-2165) and the pVL series (Lucklow and Summers, 1989. Virology 170: 31-39).

In some embodiments, a vector is capable of driving expression of one or more sequences in mammalian cells using a mammalian expression vector. Examples of mammalian expression vectors include pCDM8 (Seed, 1987. Nature 329: 840) and pMT2PC (Kaufman, et al., 1987. EMBO J. 6: 187-195). When used in mammalian cells, the expression vector's control functions are typically provided by one or more regulatory elements. For example, commonly used promoters are derived from polyoma, adenovirus 2, cytomegalovirus, simian virus 40, and others disclosed herein and known in the art. For other suitable expression systems for both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells see, e.g., Chapters 16 and 17 of Sambrook, et al., MOLECULAR CLONING: A LABORATORY MANUAL. 2nd ed., Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y., 1989.

In some embodiments, the recombinant mammalian expression vector is capable of directing expression of the nucleic acid preferentially in a particular cell type (e.g., tissue-specific regulatory elements are used to express the nucleic acid). Tissue-specific regulatory elements are known in the art. Non-limiting examples of suitable tissue-specific promoters include the albumin promoter (liver-specific; Pinkert, et al., 1987. Genes Dev. 1: 268-277), lymphoid-specific promoters (Calame and Eaton, 1988. Adv. Immunol. 43: 235-275), in particular promoters of T cell receptors (Winoto and Baltimore, 1989. EMBO J. 8: 729-733) and immunoglobulins (Baneiji, et al., 1983. Cell 33: 729-740; Queen and Baltimore, 1983. Cell 33: 741-748), neuron-specific promoters (e.g., the neurofilament promoter; Byrne and Ruddle, 1989. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 86: 5473-5477), pancreas-specific promoters (Edlund, et al., 1985. Science 230: 912-916), and mammary gland-specific promoters (e.g., milk whey promoter; U.S. Pat. No. 4,873,316 and European Application Publication No. 264,166). Developmentally-regulated promoters are also encompassed, e.g., the murine hox promoters (Kessel and Gruss, 1990. Science 249: 374-379) and the α-fetoprotein promoter (Campes and Tilghman, 1989. Genes Dev. 3: 537-546). With regards to these prokaryotic and eukaryotic vectors, mention is made of U.S. Pat. No. 6,750,059, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. Other embodiments of the invention may relate to the use of viral vectors, with regards to which mention is made of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/092,085, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. Tissue-specific regulatory elements are known in the art and in this regard, mention is made of U.S. Pat. No. 7,776,321, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. In some embodiments, a regulatory element is operably linked to one or more elements of a CRISPR system so as to drive expression of the one or more elements of the CRISPR system. In general, CRISPRs (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats), also known as SPIDRs (SPacer Interspersed Direct Repeats), constitute a family of DNA loci that are usually specific to a particular bacterial species. The CRISPR locus comprises a distinct class of interspersed short sequence repeats (SSRs) that were recognized in E. coli (Ishino et al., J. Bacteriol., 169:5429-5433 [1987]; and Nakata et al., J. Bacteriol., 171:3553-3556 [1989]), and associated genes. Similar interspersed SSRs have been identified in Haloferax mediterranei, Streptococcus pyogenes, Anabaena, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (See, Groenen et al., Mol. Microbiol., 10:1057-1065 [1993]; Hoe et al., Emerg. Infect. Dis., 5:254-263 [1999]; Masepohl et al., Biochim. Biophys. Acta 1307:26-30 [1996]; and Mojica et al., Mol. Microbiol., 17:85-93 [1995]). The CRISPR loci typically differ from other SSRs by the structure of the repeats, which have been termed short regularly spaced repeats (SRSRs) (Janssen et al., OMICS J. Integ. Biol., 6:23-33 [2002]; and Mojica et al., Mol. Microbiol., 36:244-246 [2000]). In general, the repeats are short elements that occur in clusters that are regularly spaced by unique intervening sequences with a substantially constant length (Mojica et al., [2000], supra). Although the repeat sequences are highly conserved between strains, the number of interspersed repeats and the sequences of the spacer regions typically differ from strain to strain (van Embden et al., J. Bacteriol., 182:2393-2401 [2000]). CRISPR loci have been identified in more than 40 prokaryotes (See e.g., Jansen et al., Mol. Microbiol., 43:1565-1575 [2002]; and Mojica et al., [2005]) including, but not limited to Aeropyrum, Pyrobaculum, Sulfolobus, Archaeoglobus, Halocarcula, Methanobacterium, Methanococcus, Methanosarcina, Methanopyrus, Pyrococcus, Picrophilus, Thermoplasma, Corynebacterium, Mycobacterium, Streptomyces, Aquifex, Porphyromonas, Chlorobium, Thermus, Bacillus, Listeria, Staphylococcus, Clostridium, Thermoanaerobacter, Mycoplasma, Fusobacterium, Azarcus, Chromobacterium, Neisseria, Nitrosomonas, Desulfovibrio, Geobacter, Myxococcus, Campylobacter, Wolinella, Acinetobacter, Erwinia, Escherichia, Legionella, Methylococcus, Pasteurella, Photobacterium, Salmonella, Xanthomonas, Yersinia, Treponema, and Thermotoga.

In general, “nucleic acid-targeting system” as used in the present application refers collectively to transcripts and other elements involved in the expression of or directing the activity of nucleic acid-targeting CRISPR-associated (“Cas”) genes (also referred to herein as an effector protein), including sequences encoding a nucleic acid-targeting Cas (effector) protein and a guide RNA (comprising crRNA sequence and a trans-activating CRISPR/Cas system RNA (tracrRNA) sequence), or other sequences and transcripts from a nucleic acid-targeting CRISPR locus. In some embodiments, one or more elements of a nucleic acid-targeting system are derived from a Type V/Type VI nucleic acid-targeting CRISPR system. In some embodiments, one or more elements of a nucleic acid-targeting system is derived from a particular organism comprising an endogenous nucleic acid-targeting CRISPR system. In general, a nucleic acid-targeting system is characterized by elements that promote the formation of a nucleic acid-targeting complex at the site of a target sequence. In the context of formation of a nucleic acid-targeting complex, “target sequence” refers to a sequence to which a guide sequence is designed to have complementarity, where hybridization between a target sequence and a guide RNA promotes the formation of a DNA or RNA-targeting complex. Full complementarity is not necessarily required, provided there is sufficient complementarity to cause hybridization and promote formation of a nucleic acid-targeting complex. A target sequence may comprise RNA polynucleotides. In some embodiments, a target sequence is located in the nucleus or cytoplasm of a cell. In some embodiments, the target sequence may be within an organelle of a eukaryotic cell, for example, mitochondrion or chloroplast. A sequence or template that may be used for recombination into the targeted locus comprising the target sequences is referred to as an “editing template” or “editing RNA” or “editing sequence”. In aspects of the invention, an exogenous template RNA may be referred to as an editing template. In an aspect of the invention the recombination is homologous recombination.

Typically, in the context of an endogenous nucleic acid-targeting system, formation of a nucleic acid-targeting complex (comprising a guide RNA hybridized to a target sequence and complexed with one or more nucleic acid-targeting effector proteins) results in cleavage of one or both RNA strands in or near (e.g. within 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 50, or more base pairs from) the target sequence. In some embodiments, one or more vectors driving expression of one or more elements of a nucleic acid-targeting system are introduced into a host cell such that expression of the elements of the nucleic acid-targeting system direct formation of a nucleic acid-targeting complex at one or more target sites. For example, a nucleic acid-targeting effector protein and a guide RNA could each be operably linked to separate regulatory elements on separate vectors. Alternatively, two or more of the elements expressed from the same or different regulatory elements, may be combined in a single vector, with one or more additional vectors providing any components of the nucleic acid-targeting system not included in the first vector. Nucleic acid-targeting system elements that are combined in a single vector may be arranged in any suitable orientation, such as one element located 5′ with respect to (“upstream” of) or 3′ with respect to (“downstream” of) a second element. The coding sequence of one element may be located on the same or opposite strand of the coding sequence of a second element, and oriented in the same or opposite direction. In some embodiments, a single promoter drives expression of a transcript encoding a nucleic acid-targeting effector protein and a guide RNA embedded within one or more intron sequences (e.g. each in a different intron, two or more in at least one intron, or all in a single intron). In some embodiments, the nucleic acid-targeting effector protein and guide RNA are operably linked to and expressed from the same promoter.

In general, a guide sequence is any polynucleotide sequence having sufficient complementarity with a target polynucleotide sequence to hybridize with the target sequence and direct sequence-specific binding of a nucleic acid-targeting complex to the target sequence. In some embodiments, the degree of complementarity between a guide sequence and its corresponding target sequence, when optimally aligned using a suitable alignment algorithm, is about or more than about 50%, 60%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 97.5%, 99%, or more. Optimal alignment may be determined with the use of any suitable algorithm for aligning sequences, non-limiting example of which include the Smith-Waterman algorithm, the Needleman-Wunsch algorithm, algorithms based on the Burrows-Wheeler Transform (e.g. the Burrows Wheeler Aligner), ClustalW, Clustal X, BLAT, Novoalign (Novocraft Technologies, ELAND (Illumina, San Diego, Calif.), SOAP (available at soap.genomics.org.cn), and Maq (available at maq.sourceforge.net). In some embodiments, a guide sequence is about or more than about 5, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 75, or more nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, a guide sequence is less than about 75, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 12, or fewer nucleotides in length. The ability of a guide sequence to direct sequence-specific binding of a nucleic acid-targeting complex to a target sequence may be assessed by any suitable assay. For example, the components of a nucleic acid-targeting system sufficient to form a nucleic acid-targeting complex, including the guide sequence to be tested, may be provided to a host cell having the corresponding target sequence, such as by transfection with vectors encoding the components of the nucleic acid-targeting CRISPR sequence, followed by an assessment of preferential cleavage within or in the vicinity of the target sequence, such as by Surveyor assay as described herein. Similarly, cleavage of a target polynucleotide sequence (or a sequence in the vicinity thereof) may be evaluated in a test tube by providing the target sequence, components of a nucleic acid-targeting complex, including the guide sequence to be tested and a control guide sequence different from the test guide sequence, and comparing binding or rate of cleavage at or in the vicinity of the target sequence between the test and control guide sequence reactions. Other assays are possible, and will occur to those skilled in the art.

A guide sequence may be selected to target any target sequence. In some embodiments, the target sequence is a sequence within a gene transcript or mRNA.

In some embodiments, the target sequence is a sequence within a genome of a cell.

In some embodiments, a guide sequence is selected to reduce the degree of secondary structure within the guide sequence. Secondary structure may be determined by any suitable polynucleotide folding algorithm. Some programs are based on calculating the minimal Gibbs free energy. An example of one such algorithm is mFold, as described by Zuker and Stiegler (Nucleic Acids Res. 9 (1981), 133-148). Another example folding algorithm is the online webserver RNAfold, developed at Institute for Theoretical Chemistry at the University of Vienna, using the centroid structure prediction algorithm (see e.g. A. R. Gruber et al., 2008, Cell 106(1): 23-24; and PA Carr and GM Church, 2009, Nature Biotechnology 27(12): 1151-62). Further algorithms may be found in U.S. application Ser. No. 61/836,080); incorporated herein by reference.

In some embodiments, a recombination template is also provided. A recombination template may be a component of another vector as described herein, contained in a separate vector, or provided as a separate polynucleotide. In some embodiments, a recombination template is designed to serve as a template in homologous recombination, such as within or near a target sequence nicked or cleaved by a nucleic acid-targeting effector protein as a part of a nucleic acid-targeting complex. A template polynucleotide may be of any suitable length, such as about or more than about 10, 15, 20, 25, 50, 75, 100, 150, 200, 500, 1000, or more nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the template polynucleotide is complementary to a portion of a polynucleotide comprising the target sequence. When optimally aligned, a template polynucleotide might overlap with one or more nucleotides of a target sequences (e.g. about or more than about 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100 or more nucleotides). In some embodiments, when a template sequence and a polynucleotide comprising a target sequence are optimally aligned, the nearest nucleotide of the template polynucleotide is within about 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 50, 75, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 1000, 5000, 10000, or more nucleotides from the target sequence.

In some embodiments, the nucleic acid-targeting effector protein is part of a fusion protein comprising one or more heterologous protein domains (e.g., about or more than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more domains in addition to the nucleic acid-targeting effector protein). In some embodiments, the CRISPR effector protein/enzyme is part of a fusion protein comprising one or more heterologous protein domains (e.g. about or more than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more domains in addition to the CRISPR enzyme). A CRISPR enzyme fusion protein may comprise any additional protein sequence, and optionally a linker sequence between any two domains. Examples of protein domains that may be fused to a CRISPR enzyme include, without limitation, epitope tags, reporter gene sequences, and protein domains having one or more of the following activities: methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, RNA cleavage activity and nucleic acid binding activity. Non-limiting examples of epitope tags include histidine (His) tags, V5 tags, FLAG tags, influenza hemagglutinin (HA) tags, Myc tags, VSV-G tags, and thioredoxin (Trx) tags. Examples of reporter genes include, but are not limited to, glutathione-S-transferase (GST), horseradish peroxidase (HRP), chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) beta-galactosidase, beta-glucuronidase, luciferase, green fluorescent protein (GFP), HcRed, DsRed, cyan fluorescent protein (CFP), yellow fluorescent protein (YFP), and autofluorescent proteins including blue fluorescent protein (BFP). A CRISPR enzyme may be fused to a gene sequence encoding a protein or a fragment of a protein that bind DNA molecules or bind other cellular molecules, including but not limited to maltose binding protein (MBP), S-tag, Lex A DNA binding domain (DBD) fusions, GAL4 DNA binding domain fusions, and herpes simplex virus (HSV) BP16 protein fusions. Additional domains that may form part of a fusion protein comprising a CRISPR enzyme are described in US20110059502, incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, a tagged CRISPR enzyme is used to identify the location of a target sequence.

In some embodiments, a CRISPR enzyme may form a component of an inducible system. The inducible nature of the system would allow for spatiotemporal control of gene editing or gene expression using a form of energy. The form of energy may include but is not limited to electromagnetic radiation, sound energy, chemical energy and thermal energy. Examples of inducible system include tetracycline inducible promoters (Tet-On or Tet-Off), small molecule two-hybrid transcription activations systems (FKBP, ABA, etc), or light inducible systems (Phytochrome, LOV domains, or cryptochrome),In one embodiment, the CRISPR enzyme may be a part of a Light Inducible Transcriptional Effector (LITE) to direct changes in transcriptional activity in a sequence-specific manner. The components of a light may include a CRISPR enzyme, a light-responsive cytochrome heterodimer (e.g. from Arabidopsis thaliana), and a transcriptional activation/repression domain. Further examples of inducible DNA binding proteins and methods for their use are provided in U.S. 61/736,465 and U.S. 61/721,283 and WO 2014/018423 and U.S. Pat. No. 8,889,418, U.S. Pat. No. 8,895,308, US20140186919, US20140242700, US20140273234, US20140335620, WO2014093635, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In some aspects, the invention provides methods comprising delivering one or more polynucleotides, such as or one or more vectors as described herein, one or more transcripts thereof, and/or one or proteins transcribed therefrom, to a host cell. In some aspects, the invention further provides cells produced by such methods, and organisms (such as animals, plants, or fungi) comprising or produced from such cells. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid-targeting effector protein in combination with (and optionally complexed with) a guide RNA is delivered to a cell. Conventional viral and non-viral based gene transfer methods can be used to introduce nucleic acids in mammalian cells or target tissues. Such methods can be used to administer nucleic acids encoding components of a nucleic acid-targeting system to cells in culture, or in a host organism. Non-viral vector delivery systems include DNA plasmids, RNA (e.g. a transcript of a vector described herein), naked nucleic acid, and nucleic acid complexed with a delivery vehicle, such as a liposome. Viral vector delivery systems include DNA and RNA viruses, which have either episomal or integrated genomes after delivery to the cell. For a review of gene therapy procedures, see Anderson, Science 256:808-813 (1992); Nabel & Felgner, TIBTECH 11:211-217 (1993); Mitani & Caskey, TIBTECH 11:162-166 (1993); Dillon, TIBTECH 11:167-175 (1993); Miller, Nature 357:455-460 (1992); Van Brunt, Biotechnology 6(10):1149-1154 (1988); Vigne, Restorative Neurology and Neuroscience 8:35-36 (1995); Kremer & Perricaudet, British Medical Bulletin 51(1):31-44 (1995); Haddada et al., in Current Topics in Microbiology and Immunology, Doerfler and Bohm (eds) (1995); and Yu et al., Gene Therapy 1:13-26 (1994).

Methods of non-viral delivery of nucleic acids include lipofection, nucleofection, microinjection, biolistics, virosomes, liposomes, immunoliposomes, polycation or lipid:nucleic acid conjugates, naked DNA, artificial virions, and agent-enhanced uptake of DNA. Lipofection is described in e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,049,386, 4,946,787; and 4,897,355) and lipofection reagents are sold commercially (e.g., Transfectam™ and Lipofectin™). Cationic and neutral lipids that are suitable for efficient receptor-recognition lipofection of polynucleotides include those of Felgner, WO 91/17424; WO 91/16024. Delivery can be to cells (e.g. in vitro or ex vivo administration) or target tissues (e.g. in vivo administration).

The preparation of lipid:nucleic acid complexes, including targeted liposomes such as immunolipid complexes, is well known to one of skill in the art (see, e.g., Crystal, Science 270:404-410 (1995); Blaese et al., Cancer Gene Ther. 2:291-297 (1995); Behr et al., Bioconjugate Chem. 5:382-389 (1994); Remy et al., Bioconjugate Chem. 5:647-654 (1994); Gao et al., Gene Therapy 2:710-722 (1995); Ahmad et al., Cancer Res. 52:4817-4820 (1992); U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,186,183, 4,217,344, 4,235,871, 4,261,975, 4,485,054, 4,501,728, 4,774,085, 4,837,028, and 4,946,787).

The use of RNA or DNA viral based systems for the delivery of nucleic acids takes advantage of highly evolved processes for targeting a virus to specific cells in the body and trafficking the viral payload to the nucleus. Viral vectors can be administered directly to patients (in vivo) or they can be used to treat cells in vitro, and the modified cells may optionally be administered to patients (ex vivo). Conventional viral based systems could include retroviral, lentivirus, adenoviral, adeno-associated and herpes simplex virus vectors for gene transfer. Integration in the host genome is possible with the retrovirus, lentivirus, and adeno-associated virus gene transfer methods, often resulting in long term expression of the inserted transgene. Additionally, high transduction efficiencies have been observed in many different cell types and target tissues.

The tropism of a retrovirus can be altered by incorporating foreign envelope proteins, expanding the potential target population of target cells. Lentiviral vectors are retroviral vectors that are able to transduce or infect non-dividing cells and typically produce high viral titers. Selection of a retroviral gene transfer system would therefore depend on the target tissue. Retroviral vectors are comprised of cis-acting long terminal repeats with packaging capacity for up to 6-10 kb of foreign sequence. The minimum cis-acting LTRs are sufficient for replication and packaging of the vectors, which are then used to integrate the therapeutic gene into the target cell to provide permanent transgene expression. Widely used retroviral vectors include those based upon murine leukemia virus (MuLV), gibbon ape leukemia virus (GaLV), Simian Immuno deficiency virus (SIV), human immuno deficiency virus (HIV), and combinations thereof (see, e.g., Buchscher et al., J. Virol. 66:2731-2739 (1992); Johann et al., J. Virol. 66:1635-1640 (1992); Sommnerfelt et al., Virol. 176:58-59 (1990); Wilson et al., J. Virol. 63:2374-2378 (1989); Miller et al., J. Virol. 65:2220-2224 (1991); PCT/US94/05700),In applications where transient expression is preferred, adenoviral based systems may be used. Adenoviral based vectors are capable of very high transduction efficiency in many cell types and do not require cell division. With such vectors, high titer and levels of expression have been obtained. This vector can be produced in large quantities in a relatively simple system. Adeno-associated virus (“AAV”) vectors may also be used to transduce cells with target nucleic acids, e.g., in the in vitro production of nucleic acids and peptides, and for in vivo and ex vivo gene therapy procedures (see, e.g., West et al., Virology 160:38-47 (1987); U.S. Pat. No. 4,797,368; WO 93/24641; Kotin, Human Gene Therapy 5:793-801 (1994); Muzyczka, J. Clin. Invest. 94:1351 (1994). Construction of recombinant AAV vectors are described in a number of publications, including U.S. Pat. No. 5,173,414; Tratschin et al., Mol. Cell. Biol. 5:3251-3260 (1985); Tratschin, et al., Mol. Cell. Biol. 4:2072-2081 (1984); Hermonat & Muzyczka, PNAS 81:6466-6470 (1984); and Samulski et al., J. Virol. 63:03822-3828 (1989).

Delivery in General

The invention involves at least one component of the CRISPR complex, e.g., RNA, delivered via at least one nanoparticle complex. In some aspects, the invention provides methods comprising delivering one or more polynucleotides, such as or one or more vectors as described herein, one or more transcripts thereof, and/or one or proteins transcribed therefrom, to a host cell. In some aspects, the invention further provides cells produced by such methods, and animals comprising or produced from such cells. In some embodiments, a CRISPR enzyme in combination with (and optionally complexed with) a guide sequence is delivered to a cell. Conventional viral and non-viral based gene transfer methods can be used to introduce nucleic acids in mammalian cells or target tissues. Such methods can be used to administer nucleic acids encoding components of a CRISPR system to cells in culture, or in a host organism. Non-viral vector delivery systems include DNA plasmids, RNA (e.g. a transcript of a vector described herein), naked nucleic acid, and nucleic acid complexed with a delivery vehicle, such as a liposome. Viral vector delivery systems include DNA and RNA viruses, which have either episomal or integrated genomes after delivery to the cell. For a review of gene therapy procedures, see Anderson, Science 256:808-813 (1992); Nabel & Felgner, TIBTECH 11:211-217 (1993); Mitani & Caskey, TIBTECH 11:162-166 (1993); Dillon, TIBTECH 11:167-175 (1993); Miller, Nature 357:455-460 (1992); Van Brunt, Biotechnology 6(10):1149-1154 (1988); Vigne, Restorative Neurology and Neuroscience 8:35-36 (1995); Kremer & Perricaudet, British Medical Bulletin 51(1):31-44 (1995); Haddada et al., in Current Topics in Microbiology and Immunology Doerfler and Bohm (eds) (1995); and Yu et al., Gene Therapy 1:13-26 (1994).

Methods of non-viral delivery of nucleic acids include lipofection, microinjection, biolistics, virosomes, liposomes, immunoliposomes, polycation or lipid:nucleic acid conjugates, naked DNA, artificial virions, and agent-enhanced uptake of DNA. Lipofection is described in e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,049,386, 4,946,787; and 4,897,355) and lipofection reagents are sold commercially (e.g., Transfectam™ and Lipofectin™). Cationic and neutral lipids that are suitable for efficient receptor-recognition lipofection of polynucleotides include those of Felgner, WO 91/17424; WO 91/16024. Delivery can be to cells (e.g. in vitro or ex vivo administration) or target tissues (e.g. in vivo administration).

The preparation of lipid:nucleic acid complexes, including targeted liposomes such as immunolipid complexes, is well known to one of skill in the art (see, e.g., Crystal, Science 270:404-410 (1995); Blaese et al., Cancer Gene Ther. 2:291-297 (1995); Behr et al., Bioconjugate Chem. 5:382-389 (1994); Remy et al., Bioconjugate Chem. 5:647-654 (1994); Gao et al., Gene Therapy 2:710-722 (1995); Ahmad et al., Cancer Res. 52:4817-4820 (1992); U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,186,183, 4,217,344, 4,235,871, 4,261,975, 4,485,054, 4,501,728, 4,774,085, 4,837,028, and 4,946,787).

The use of RNA or DNA viral based systems for the delivery of nucleic acids take advantage of highly evolved processes for targeting a virus to specific cells in the body and trafficking the viral payload to the nucleus. Viral vectors can be administered directly to patients (in vivo) or they can be used to treat cells in vitro, and the modified cells may optionally be administered to patients (ex vivo). Conventional viral based systems could include retroviral, lentivirus, adenoviral, adeno-associated and herpes simplex virus vectors for gene transfer. Integration in the host genome is possible with the retrovirus, lentivirus, and adeno-associated virus gene transfer methods, often resulting in long term expression of the inserted transgene. Additionally, high transduction efficiencies have been observed in many different cell types and target tissues.

The tropism of a retrovirus can be altered by incorporating foreign envelope proteins, expanding the potential target population of target cells. Lentiviral vectors are retroviral vectors that are able to transduce or infect non-dividing cells and typically produce high viral titers. Selection of a retroviral gene transfer system would therefore depend on the target tissue. Retroviral vectors are comprised of cis-acting long terminal repeats with packaging capacity for up to 6-10 kb of foreign sequence. The minimum cis-acting LTRs are sufficient for replication and packaging of the vectors, which are then used to integrate the therapeutic gene into the target cell to provide permanent transgene expression. Widely used retroviral vectors include those based upon murine leukemia virus (MuLV), gibbon ape leukemia virus (GaLV), Simian Immuno deficiency virus (SIV), human immuno deficiency virus (HIV), and combinations thereof (see, e.g., Buchscher et al., J. Virol. 66:2731-2739 (1992); Johann et al., J. Virol. 66:1635-1640 (1992); Sommnerfelt et al., Virol. 176:58-59 (1990); Wilson et al., J. Virol. 63:2374-2378 (1989); Miller et al., J. Virol. 65:2220-2224 (1991); PCT/US94/05700).

In another embodiment, Cocal vesiculovirus envelope pseudotyped retroviral vector particles are contemplated (see, e.g., US Patent Publication No. 20120164118 assigned to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center). Cocal virus is in the Vesiculovirus genus, and is a causative agent of vesicular stomatitis in mammals. Cocal virus was originally isolated from mites in Trinidad (Jonkers et al., Am. J. Vet. Res. 25:236-242 (1964)), and infections have been identified in Trinidad, Brazil, and Argentina from insects, cattle, and horses. Many of the vesiculoviruses that infect mammals have been isolated from naturally infected arthropods, suggesting that they are vector-borne. Antibodies to vesiculoviruses are common among people living in rural areas where the viruses are endemic and laboratory-acquired; infections in humans usually result in influenza-like symptoms. The Cocal virus envelope glycoprotein shares 71.5% identity at the amino acid level with VSV-G Indiana, and phylogenetic comparison of the envelope gene of vesiculoviruses shows that Cocal virus is serologically distinct from, but most closely related to, VSV-G Indiana strains among the vesiculoviruses. Jonkers et al., Am. J. Vet. Res. 25:236-242 (1964) and Travassos da Rosa et al., Am. J. Tropical Med. & Hygiene 33:999-1006 (1984). The Cocal vesiculovirus envelope pseudotyped retroviral vector particles may include for example, lentiviral, alpharetroviral, betaretroviral, gammaretroviral, deltaretroviral, and epsilonretroviral vector particles that may comprise retroviral Gag, Pol, and/or one or more accessory protein(s) and a Cocal vesiculovirus envelope protein. Within certain aspects of these embodiments, the Gag, Pol, and accessory proteins are lentiviral and/or gammaretroviral. The invention provides AAV that contains or consists essentially of an exogenous nucleic acid molecule encoding a CRISPR system, e.g., a plurality of cassettes comprising or consisting a first cassette comprising or consisting essentially of a promoter, a nucleic acid molecule encoding a CRISPR-associated (Cas) protein (putative nuclease or helicase proteins), e.g., Cas9 and a terminator, and a two, or more, advantageously up to the packaging size limit of the vector, e.g., in total (including the first cassette) five, cassettes comprising or consisting essentially of a promoter, nucleic acid molecule encoding guide RNA (gRNA) and a terminator (e.g., each cassette schematically represented as Promoter-gRNA1-terminator, Promoter-gRNA2-terminator . . . Promoter-gRNA(N)-terminator (where N is a number that can be inserted that is at an upper limit of the packaging size limit of the vector), or two or more individual rAAVs, each containing one or more than one cassette of a CRISPR system, e.g., a first rAAV containing the first cassette comprising or consisting essentially of a promoter, a nucleic acid molecule encoding Cas, e.g., Cas (Cas9) and a terminator, and a second rAAV containing a plurality, four, cassettes comprising or consisting essentially of a promoter, nucleic acid molecule encoding guide RNA (gRNA) and a terminator (e.g., each cassette schematically represented as Promoter-gRNA1-terminator, Promoter-gRNA2-terminator Promoter-gRNA(N)-terminator (where N is a number that can be inserted that is at an upper limit of the packaging size limit of the vector). As rAAV is a DNA virus, the nucleic acid molecules in the herein discussion concerning AAV or rAAV are advantageously DNA. The promoter is in some embodiments advantageously human Synapsin I promoter (hSyn). Additional methods for the delivery of nucleic acids to cells are known to those skilled in the art. See, for example, US20030087817, incorporated herein by reference.

In some embodiments, a host cell is transiently or non-transiently transfected with one or more vectors described herein. In some embodiments, a cell is transfected as it naturally occurs in a subject. In some embodiments, a cell that is transfected is taken from a subject. In some embodiments, the cell is derived from cells taken from a subject, such as a cell line. A wide variety of cell lines for tissue culture are known in the art. Examples of cell lines include, but are not limited to, C8161, CCRF-CEM, MOLT, mIMCD-3, NHDF, HeLa-S3, Huhl, Huh4, Huh7, HUVEC, HASMC, HEKn, HEKa, MiaPaCell, Pancl, PC-3, TF1, CTLL-2, C1R, Rath, CV1, RPTE, A10, T24, J82, A375, ARH-77, Calul, SW480, SW620, SKOV3, SK-UT, CaCo2, P388D1, SEM-K2, WEHI-231, HB56, TIB55, Jurkat, J45.01, LRMB, Bcl-1, BC-3, IC21, DLD2, Raw264.7, NRK, NRK-52E, MRCS, MEF, Hep G2, HeLa B, HeLa T4, COS, COS-1, COS-6, COS-M6A, BS-C-1 monkey kidney epithelial, BALB/3T3 mouse embryo fibroblast, 3T3 Swiss, 3T3-L1, 132-d5 human fetal fibroblasts; 10.1 mouse fibroblasts, 293-T, 3T3, 721, 9L, A2780, A2780ADR, A2780cis, A172, A20, A253, A431, A-549, ALC, B16, B35, BCP-1 cells, BEAS-2B, bEnd.3, BHK-21, BR 293, BxPC3, C3H-10T1/2, C6/36, Cal-27, CHO, CHO-7, CHO-IR, CHO-K1, CHO-K2, CHO-T, CHO Dhfr −/−, COR-L23, COR-L23/CPR, COR-L23/5010, COR-L23/R23, COS-7, COV-434, CML T1, CMT, CT26, D17, DH82, DU145, DuCaP, EL4, EM2, EM3, EMT6/AR1, EMT6/AR10.0, FM3, H1299, H69, HB54, HB55, HCA2, HEK-293, HeLa, Hepa1c1c7, HL-60, HMEC, HT-29, Jurkat, JY cells, K562 cells, Ku812, KCL22, KG1, KYO1, LNCap, Ma-Mel 1-48, MC-38, MCF-7, MCF-10A, MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-468, MDA-MB-435, MDCK II, MDCK II, MOR/0.2R, MONO-MAC 6, MTD-1A, MyEnd, NCI-H69/CPR, NCI-H69/LX10, NCI-H69/LX20, NCI-H69/LX4, NIH-3T3, NALM-1, NW-145, OPCN/OPCT cell lines, Peer, PNT-1A/PNT 2, RenCa, RIN-5F, RMA/RMAS, Saos-2 cells, Sf-9, SkBr3, T2, T-47D, T84, THP1 cell line, U373, U87, U937, VCaP, Vero cells, WM39, WT-49, X63, YAC-1, YAR, and transgenic varieties thereof. Cell lines are available from a variety of sources known to those with skill in the art (see, e.g., the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) (Manassas, Va.)). In some embodiments, a cell transfected with one or more vectors described herein is used to establish a new cell line comprising one or more vector-derived sequences. In some embodiments, a cell transiently transfected with the components of a CRISPR system as described herein (such as by transient transfection of one or more vectors, or transfection with RNA), and modified through the activity of a CRISPR complex, is used to establish a new cell line comprising cells containing the modification but lacking any other exogenous sequence. In some embodiments, cells transiently or non-transiently transfected with one or more vectors described herein, or cell lines derived from such cells are used in assessing one or more test compounds.

In some embodiments, one or more vectors described herein are used to produce a non-human transgenic animal or transgenic plant. In some embodiments, the transgenic animal is a mammal, such as a mouse, rat, or rabbit. Methods for producing transgenic animals and plants are known in the art, and generally begin with a method of cell transfection, such as described herein. In another embodiment, a fluid delivery device with an array of needles (see, e.g., US Patent Publication No. 20110230839 assigned to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center) may be contemplated for delivery of CRISPR Cas to solid tissue. A device of US Patent Publication No. 20110230839 for delivery of a fluid to a solid tissue may comprise a plurality of needles arranged in an array; a plurality of reservoirs, each in fluid communication with a respective one of the plurality of needles; and a plurality of actuators operatively coupled to respective ones of the plurality of reservoirs and configured to control a fluid pressure within the reservoir. In certain embodiments each of the plurality of actuators may comprise one of a plurality of plungers, a first end of each of the plurality of plungers being received in a respective one of the plurality of reservoirs, and in certain further embodiments the plungers of the plurality of plungers are operatively coupled together at respective second ends so as to be simultaneously depressable. Certain still further embodiments may comprise a plunger driver configured to depress all of the plurality of plungers at a selectively variable rate. In other embodiments each of the plurality of actuators may comprise one of a plurality of fluid transmission lines having first and second ends, a first end of each of the plurality of fluid transmission lines being coupled to a respective one of the plurality of reservoirs. In other embodiments the device may comprise a fluid pressure source, and each of the plurality of actuators comprises a fluid coupling between the fluid pressure source and a respective one of the plurality of reservoirs. In further embodiments the fluid pressure source may comprise at least one of a compressor, a vacuum accumulator, a peristaltic pump, a master cylinder, a microfluidic pump, and a valve. In another embodiment, each of the plurality of needles may comprise a plurality of ports distributed along its length.

Delivery to the Kidney

Delivery methods to the kidney are summarized as follows:

Delivery method Carrier Target RNA Disease Model Functional assays Author Hydrodynamic/ TransIT In Vivo p85α Acute renal Ischemia- Uptake, Larson et al., Lipid Gene Delivery injury reperfusion biodistribution Surgery, (August System, DOTAP 2007), Vol. 142, No. 2, pp. (262-269) Hydrodynamic/ Lipofectamine Fas Acute renal Ischemia- Blood urea Hamar et al., Proc Lipid 2000 injury reperfusion nitrogen, Fas Natl Acad Sci, Immunohistochemistry, (October 2004), apoptosis, Vol. 101, No. 41, histological pp. (14883-14888) scoring Hydrodynamic n.a. Apoptosis Acute renal Ischemia- n.a. Zheng et al., Am J cascade injury reperfusion Pathol, (October elements 2008), Vol. 173, No. 4, pp. (973-980) Hydrodynamic n.a. Nuclear factor Acute renal Ischemia- n.a. Feng et al., kappa-b injury reperfusion Transplantation, (NFkB) (May 2009), Vol. 87, No. 9, pp. (1283-1289) Hydrodynamic/ Lipofectamine Apoptosis Acute renal Ischemia- Apoptosis, Xie & Guo, Am Viral 2000 antagonizing injury reperfusion oxidative stress, Soc Nephrol, transcription caspase activation, (December 2006), factor (AATF) membrane lipid Vol. 17, No. 12, peroxidation pp. (3336-3346) Hydrodynamic pBAsi mU6 Neo/ Gremlin Diabetic Streptozotozin- Proteinuria, serum Q. Zhang et al., TransIT-EE nephropathy induced creatinine, PloS ONE, (July Hydrodynamic diabetes glomerular and 2010), Vol. 5, No. Delivery System tubular diameter, 7, e11709, pp. (1-13) collagen type IV/BMP7 expression Viral/Lipid pSUPER TGF-β type II Interstitial Unilateral α-SMA Kushibikia et al., J vector/Lipofectamine receptor renal fibrosis urethral expression, Controlled Release, obstruction collagen content, (July 2005), Vol. 105, No. 3, pp. (318-331) Viral Adeno-associated Mineral Hypertension Cold-induced blood pressure, Wang et al., Gene virus-2 corticoid caused renal hypertension serum albumin, Therapy, (July receptor damage serum urea 2006), Vol. 13, No. nitrogen, serum 14, pp. (1097-1103) creatinine, kidney weight, urinary sodium Hydrodynamic/ pU6 vector Luciferase n.a. n.a. uptake Kobayashi et al., Viral Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, (February 2004), Vol. 308, No. 2, pp. (688-693) Lipid Lipoproteins, apoB1, apoM n.a. n.a. Uptake, binding Wolfrum et al., albumin affinity to Nature lipoproteins and Biotechnology, albumin (September 2007), Vol. 25, No. 10, pp. (1149-1157) Lipid Lipofectamine2000 p53 Acute renal Ischemic and Histological Molitoris et al., J injury cisplatin- scoring, apoptosis Am Soc Nephrol, induced acute (August 2009), Vol. injury 20, No. 8, pp. (1754-1764) Lipid DOTAP/DOPE, COX-2 Breast adeno- MDA-MB- Cell viability, Mikhaylova et al., DOTAP/DOPE/ carcinoma 231 breast uptake Cancer Gene Therapy DOPE- cancer (March 2011), PEG2000 xenograft- Vol. 16, No. 3, bearing pp. (217-226) mouse Lipid Cholesterol 12/15- Diabetic Streptozotocin- Albuminuria, Yuan et al., Am J lipoxygenase nephropathy induced urinary creatinine, Physiol Renal diabetes histology, type I Physiol, (June and IV collagen, 2008), Vol. 295, TGF-β, pp. (F605-F617) fibronectin, plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 Lipid Lipofectamine Mitochondrial Diabetic Streptozotocin- Cell proliferation Y. Zhang et al., J 2000 membrane 44 nephropathy induced and apoptosis, Am Soc Nephrol, (TIM44) diabetes histology, ROS, (April 2006), Vol. mitochondrial 17, No. 4, pp. import of Mn- (1090-1101) SOD and glutathione peroxidase, cellular membrane polarization Hydrodynamic/ Proteoliposome RLIP76 Renal Caki-2 kidney uptake Singhal et al., Lipid carcinoma cancer Cancer Res, (May xenograft- 2009), Vol. 69, No. bearing 10, pp. (4244-4251) mouse Polymer PEGylated PEI Luciferase n.a. n.a. Uptake, Malek et al., pGL3 biodistribution, Toxicology and erythrocyte Applied aggregation Pharmacology, (April 2009), Vol. 236, No. 1, pp. (97-108) Polymer PEGylated MAPK1 Lupus Glomerulonephritis Proteinuria, Shimizu et al., J poly-L-lysine glomerulonephritis glomerulosclerosis, Am Soc TGF-β, Nephrology, (April fibronectin, 2010), Vol. 21, No. plasminogen 4, pp. (622-633) activator inhibitor 1 Polymer/Nano Hyaluronic acid/ VEGF Kidney B16F1 Biodistribution, Jiang et al., particle Quantum dot/PEI cancer/ melanoma citotoxicity, tumor Molecular melanoma tumor- volume, Pharmaceutics, bearing endocytosis (May-June 2009), mouse Vol. 6, No. 3, pp. (727-737) Polymer/Nano PEGylated GAPDH n.a. n.a. cell viability, Cao et al, J particle polycaprolactone uptake Controlled Release, nanofiber (June 2010), Vol. 144, No. 2, pp. (203-212) Aptamer Spiegelmer CC chemokine Glomerulosclerosis Uninephrectomized urinary albumin, Ninichuk et al., Am mNOX-E36 ligand 2 mouse urinary creatinine, J Pathol, (March histopathology, 2008), Vol. 172, glomerular No. 3, pp. (628-637) filtration rate, macrophage count, serum Ccl2, Mac- 2+, Ki-67+ Aptamer Aptamer NOX-F37 vasopressin Congestive n.a. Binding affinity to Purschke et al., (AVP) heart failure D-AVP, Inhibition Proc Natl Acad Sci, of AVP Signaling, (March 2006), Vol. Urine osmolality 103, No. 13, pp. and sodium (5173-5178) concentration,

Delivery to the Brain

Delivery options for the brain include encapsulation of CRISPR enzyme and guide RNA in the form of either DNA or RNA into liposomes and conjugating to molecular Trojan horses for trans-blood brain barrier (BBB) delivery. Molecular Trojan horses have been shown to be effective for delivery of B-gal expression vectors into the brain of non-human primates. The same approach can be used to delivery vectors containing CRISPR enzyme and guide RNA. For instance, Xia C F and Boado R J, Pardridge W M (“Antibody-mediated targeting of siRNA via the human insulin receptor using avidin-biotin technology.” Mol Pharm. 2009 May-June; 6(3):747-51. doi: 10.1021/mp800194) describes how delivery of short interfering RNA (siRNA) to cells in culture, and in vivo, is possible with combined use of a receptor-specific monoclonal antibody (mAb) and avidin-biotin technology. The authors also report that because the bond between the targeting mAb and the siRNA is stable with avidin-biotin technology, and RNAi effects at distant sites such as brain are observed in vivo following an intravenous administration of the targeted siRNA.

Zhang et al. (Mol Ther. 2003 January; 7(1):11-8.)) describe how expression plasmids encoding reporters such as luciferase were encapsulated in the interior of an “artificial virus” comprised of an 85 nm pegylated immunoliposome, which was targeted to the rhesus monkey brain in vivo with a monoclonal antibody (MAb) to the human insulin receptor (HIR). The HIRMAb enables the liposome carrying the exogenous gene to undergo transcytosis across the blood-brain barrier and endocytosis across the neuronal plasma membrane following intravenous injection. The level of luciferase gene expression in the brain was 50-fold higher in the rhesus monkey as compared to the rat. Widespread neuronal expression of the beta-galactosidase gene in primate brain was demonstrated by both histochemistry and confocal microscopy. The authors indicate that this approach makes feasible reversible adult transgenics in 24 hours. Accordingly, the use of immunoliposome is preferred. These may be used in conjunction with antibodies to target specific tissues or cell surface proteins.

HSC—Delivery to and Editing of Hematopoietic Stem Cells; and Particular Conditions

The term “Hematopoietic Stem Cell” or “HSC” is meant to include broadly those cells considered to be an HSC, e.g., blood cells that give rise to all the other blood cells and are derived from mesoderm; located in the red bone marrow, which is contained in the core of most bones. HSCs of the invention include cells having a phenotype of hematopoietic stem cells, identified by small size, lack of lineage (lin) markers, and markers that belong to the cluster of differentiation series, like: CD34, CD38, CD90, CD133, CD105, CD45, and also c-kit, —the receptor for stem cell factor. Hematopoietic stem cells are negative for the markers that are used for detection of lineage commitment, and are, thus, called Lin−; and, during their purification by FACS, a number of up to 14 different mature blood-lineage markers, e.g., CD13 & CD33 for myeloid, CD71 for erythroid, CD19 for B cells, CD61 for megakaryocytic, etc. for humans; and, B220 (murine CD45) for B cells, Mac-1 (CD11b/CD18) for monocytes, Gr-1 for Granulocytes, Ter119 for erythroid cells, Il7Ra, CD3, CD4, CD5, CD8 for T cells, etc. Mouse HSC markers: CD34lo/−, SCA-1+, Thy1.1+/lo, CD38+, C-kit+, lin−, and Human HSC markers: CD34+, CD59+, Thy1/CD90+, CD38lo/−, C-kit/CD117+, and lin−. HSCs are identified by markers. Hence in embodiments discussed herein, the HSCs can be CD34+ cells. HSCs can also be hematopoietic stem cells that are CD34−/CD38−. Stem cells that may lack c-kit on the cell surface that are considered in the art as HSCs are within the ambit of the invention, as well as CD133+ cells likewise considered HSCs in the art.

The CRISPR-Cas (eg Cas9) system may be engineered to target genetic locus or loci in HSCs. Cas (eg Cas9) protein, advantageously codon-optimized for a eukaryotic cell and especially a mammalian cell, e.g., a human cell, for instance, HSC, and sgRNA targeting a locus or loci in HSC, e.g., the gene EMX1, may be prepared. These may be delivered via particles. The particles may be formed by the Cas (eg Cas9) protein and the sgRNA being admixed. The sgRNA and Cas (eg Cas9) protein mixture may for example be admixed with a mixture comprising or consisting essentially of or consisting of surfactant, phospholipid, biodegradable polymer, lipoprotein and alcohol, whereby particles containing the sgRNA and Cas (eg Cas9) protein may be formed. The invention comprehends so making particles and particles from such a method as well as uses thereof.

More generally, particles may be formed using an efficient process. First, Cas (eg Cas9) protein and sgRNA targeting the gene EMX1 or the control gene LacZ may be mixed together at a suitable, e.g., 3:1 to 1:3 or 2:1 to 1:2 or 1:1 molar ratio, at a suitable temperature, e.g., 15-30 C, e.g., 20-25 C, e.g., room temperature, for a suitable time, e.g., 15-45, such as 30 minutes, advantageously in sterile, nuclease free buffer, e.g., 1×PBS. Separately, particle components such as or comprising: a surfactant, e.g., cationic lipid, e.g., 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DOTAP); phospholipid, e.g., dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC); biodegradable polymer, such as an ethylene-glycol polymer or PEG, and a lipoprotein, such as a low-density lipoprotein, e.g., cholesterol may be dissolved in an alcohol, advantageously a C1-6 alkyl alcohol, such as methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, e.g., 100% ethanol. The two solutions may be mixed together to form particles containing the Cas (eg Cas9)-sgRNA complexes. In certain embodiments the particle can contain an HDR template. That can be a particle co-administered with sgRNA+Cas (eg Cas9) protein-containing particle, or i.e., in addition to contacting an HSC with an sgRNA+Cas (eg Cas9) protein-containing particle, the HSC is contacted with a particle containing an HDR template; or the HSC is contacted with a particle containing all of the sgRNA, Cas (eg Cas9) and the HDR template. The HDR template can be administered by a separate vector, whereby in a first instance the particle penetrates an HSC cell and the separate vector also penetrates the cell, wherein the HSC genome is modified by the sgRNA+Cas (eg Cas9) and the HDR template is also present, whereby a genomic loci is modified by the HDR; for instance, this may result in correcting a mutation.

After the particles form, HSCs in 96 well plates may be transfected with 15 ug Cas (eg Cas9) protein per well. Three days after transfection, HSCs may be harvested, and the number of insertions and deletions (indels) at the EMX1 locus may be quantified.

This illustrates how HSCs can be modified using CRISPR-Cas (eg Cas9) targeting a genomic locus or loci of interest in the HSC. The HSCs that are to be modified can be in vivo, i.e., in an organism, for example a human or a non-human eukaryote, e.g., animal, such as fish, e.g., zebra fish, mammal, e.g., primate, e.g., ape, chimpanzee, macaque, rodent, e.g., mouse, rabbit, rat, canine or dog, livestock (cow/bovine, sheep/ovine, goat or pig), fowl or poultry, e.g., chicken. The HSCs that are to be modified can be in vitro, i.e., outside of such an organism. And, modified HSCs can be used ex vivo, i.e., one or more HSCs of such an organism can be obtained or isolated from the organism, optionally the HSC(s) can be expanded, the HSC(s) are modified by a composition comprising a CRISPR-Cas (eg Cas9) that targets a genetic locus or loci in the HSC, e.g., by contacting the HSC(s) with the composition, for instance, wherein the composition comprises a particle containing the CRISPR enzyme and one or more sgRNA that targets the genetic locus or loci in the HSC, such as a particle obtained or obtainable from admixing an sgRNA and Cas (eg Cas9) protein mixture with a mixture comprising or consisting essentially of or consisting of surfactant, phospholipid, biodegradable polymer, lipoprotein and alcohol (wherein one or more sgRNA targets the genetic locus or loci in the HSC), optionally expanding the resultant modified HSCs and administering to the organism the resultant modified HSCs. In some instances the isolated or obtained HSCs can be from a first organism, such as an organism from a same species as a second organism, and the second organism can be the organism to which the resultant modified HSCs are administered, e.g., the first organism can be a donor (such as a relative as in a parent or sibling) to the second organism. Modified HSCs can have genetic modifications to address or alleviate or reduce symptoms of a disease or condition state of an individual or subject or patient. Modified HSCs, e.g., in the instance of a first organism donor to a second organism, can have genetic modifications to have the HSCs have one or more proteins e.g. surface markers or proteins more like that of the second organism. Modified HSCs can have genetic modifications to simulate a disease or condition state of an individual or subject or patient and would be re-administered to a non-human organism so as to prepare an animal model. Expansion of HSCs is within the ambit of the skilled person from this disclosure and knowledge in the art, see e.g., Lee, “Improved ex vivo expansion of adult hematopoietic stem cells by overcoming CUL4-mediated degradation of HOXB4.” Blood. 2013 May 16; 121(20):4082-9. doi: 10.1182/blood-2012-09-455204. Epub 2013 Mar. 21.

As indicated to improve activity, sgRNA may be pre-complexed with the Cas (eg Cas9) protein, before formulating the entire complex in a particle. Formulations may be made with a different molar ratio of different components known to promote delivery of nucleic acids into cells (e.g. 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DOTAP), 1,2-ditetradecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DMPC), polyethylene glycol (PEG), and cholesterol) For example DOTAP:DMPC:PEG:Cholesterol Molar Ratios may be DOTAP 100, DMPC 0, PEG 0, Cholesterol 0; or DOTAP 90, DMPC 0, PEG 10, Cholesterol 0; or DOTAP 90, DMPC 0, PEG 5, Cholesterol 5. DOTAP 100, DMPC 0, PEG 0, Cholesterol 0. The invention accordingly comprehends admixing sgRNA, Cas (eg Cas9) protein and components that form a particle; as well as particles from such admixing.

In a preferred embodiment, particles containing the Cas (eg Cas9)-sgRNA complexes may be formed by mixing Cas (eg Cas9) protein and one or more sgRNAs together, preferably at a 1:1 molar ratio, enzyme: guide RNA. Separately, the different components known to promote delivery of nucleic acids (e.g. DOTAP, DMPC, PEG, and cholesterol) are dissolved, preferably in ethanol. The two solutions are mixed together to form particles containing the Cas (eg Cas9)-sgRNA complexes. After the particles are formed, Cas (eg Cas9)-sgRNA complexes may be transfected into cells (e.g. HSCs). Bar coding may be applied. The particles, the Cas-9 and/or the sgRNA may be barcoded.

The invention in an embodiment comprehends a method of preparing an sgRNA-and-Cas (eg Cas9) protein containing particle comprising admixing an sgRNA and Cas (eg Cas9) protein mixture with a mixture comprising or consisting essentially of or consisting of surfactant, phospholipid, biodegradable polymer, lipoprotein and alcohol. An embodiment comprehends an sgRNA-and-Cas (eg Cas9) protein containing particle from the method. The invention in an embodiment comprehends use of the particle in a method of modifying a genomic locus of interest, or an organism or a non-human organism by manipulation of a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest, comprising contacting a cell containing the genomic locus of interest with the particle wherein the sgRNA targets the genomic locus of interest; or a method of modifying a genomic locus of interest, or an organism or a non-human organism by manipulation of a target sequence in a genomic locus of interest, comprising contacting a cell containing the genomic locus of interest with the particle wherein the sgRNA targets the genomic locus of interest. In these embodiments, the genomic locus of interest is advantageously a genomic locus in an HSC.

Considerations for Therapeutic Applications: A consideration in genome editing therapy is the choice of sequence-specific nuclease, such as a variant of a Cas9 nuclease. Each nuclease variant may possess its own unique set of strengths and weaknesses, many of which must be balanced in the context of treatment to maximize therapeutic benefit. Thus far, two therapeutic editing approaches with nucleases have shown significant promise: gene disruption and gene correction. Gene disruption involves stimulation of NHEJ to create targeted indels in genetic elements, often resulting in loss of function mutations that are beneficial to patients. In contrast, gene correction uses HDR to directly reverse a disease causing mutation, restoring function while preserving physiological regulation of the corrected element. HDR may also be used to insert a therapeutic transgene into a defined ‘safe harbor’ locus in the genome to recover missing gene function. For a specific editing therapy to be efficacious, a sufficiently high level of modification must be achieved in target cell populations to reverse disease symptoms. This therapeutic modification ‘threshold’ is determined by the fitness of edited cells following treatment and the amount of gene product necessary to reverse symptoms. With regard to fitness, editing creates three potential outcomes for treated cells relative to their unedited counterparts: increased, neutral, or decreased fitness. In the case of increased fitness, for example in the treatment of SCID-X1, modified hematopoietic progenitor cells selectively expand relative to their unedited counterparts. SCID-X1 is a disease caused by mutations in the IL2RG gene, the function of which is required for proper development of the hematopoietic lymphocyte lineage [Leonard, W. J., et al. Immunological reviews 138, 61-86 (1994); Kaushansky, K. & Williams, W. J. Williams hematology, (McGraw-Hill Medical, New York, 2010)]. In clinical trials with patients who received viral gene therapy for SCID-X1, and a rare example of a spontaneous correction of SCID-X1 mutation, corrected hematopoietic progenitor cells may be able to overcome this developmental block and expand relative to their diseased counterparts to mediate therapy [Bousso, P., et al. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 97, 274-278 (2000); Hacein-Bey-Abina, S., et al. The New England journal of medicine 346, 1185-1193 (2002); Gaspar, H. B., et al. Lancet 364, 2181-2187 (2004)]. In this case, where edited cells possess a selective advantage, even low numbers of edited cells can be amplified through expansion, providing a therapeutic benefit to the patient. In contrast, editing for other hematopoietic diseases, like chronic granulomatous disorder (CGD), would induce no change in fitness for edited hematopoietic progenitor cells, increasing the therapeutic modification threshold. CGD is caused by mutations in genes encoding phagocytic oxidase proteins, which are normally used by neutrophils to generate reactive oxygen species that kill pathogens [Mukherjee, S. & Thrasher, A. J. Gene 525, 174-181 (2013)]. As dysfunction of these genes does not influence hematopoietic progenitor cell fitness or development, but only the ability of a mature hematopoietic cell type to fight infections, there would be likely no preferential expansion of edited cells in this disease. Indeed, no selective advantage for gene corrected cells in CGD has been observed in gene therapy trials, leading to difficulties with long-term cell engraftment [Malech, H. L., et al. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 94, 12133-12138 (1997); Kang, H. J., et al. Molecular therapy: the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy 19, 2092-2101 (2011)]. As such, significantly higher levels of editing would be required to treat diseases like CGD, where editing creates a neutral fitness advantage, relative to diseases where editing creates increased fitness for target cells. If editing imposes a fitness disadvantage, as would be the case for restoring function to a tumor suppressor gene in cancer cells, modified cells would be outcompeted by their diseased counterparts, causing the benefit of treatment to be low relative to editing rates. This latter class of diseases would be particularly difficult to treat with genome editing therapy.

In addition to cell fitness, the amount of gene product necessary to treat disease also influences the minimal level of therapeutic genome editing that must be achieved to reverse symptoms. Haemophilia B is one disease where a small change in gene product levels can result in significant changes in clinical outcomes. This disease is caused by mutations in the gene encoding factor IX, a protein normally secreted by the liver into the blood, where it functions as a component of the clotting cascade. Clinical severity of haemophilia B is related to the amount of factor IX activity. Whereas severe disease is associated with less than 1% of normal activity, milder forms of the diseases are associated with greater than 1% of factor IX activity [Kaushansky, K. & Williams, W. J. Williams hematology, (McGraw-Hill Medical, New York, 2010); Lofqvist, T., et al. Journal of internal medicine 241, 395-400 (1997)]. This suggests that editing therapies that can restore factor IX expression to even a small percentage of liver cells could have a large impact on clinical outcomes. A study using ZFNs to correct a mouse model of haemophilia B shortly after birth demonstrated that 3-7% correction was sufficient to reverse disease symptoms, providing preclinical evidence for this hypothesis [Li, H., et al. Nature 475, 217-221 (2011)].

Disorders where a small change in gene product levels can influence clinical outcomes and diseases where there is a fitness advantage for edited cells, are ideal targets for genome editing therapy, as the therapeutic modification threshold is low enough to permit a high chance of success given the current technology. Targeting these diseases has now resulted in successes with editing therapy at the preclinical level and a phase I clinical trial. Improvements in DSB repair pathway manipulation and nuclease delivery are needed to extend these promising results to diseases with a neutral fitness advantage for edited cells, or where larger amounts of gene product are needed for treatment. The Table below shows some examples of applications of genome editing to therapeutic models, and the references of the below Table and the documents cited in those references are hereby incorporated herein by reference as if set out in full.

Nuclease Disease Platform Type Employed Therapeutic Strategy References Hemophilia ZFN HDR-mediated insertion Li, H., et al. Nature B of correct gene 475, 217-221 (2011) sequence SCID ZFN HDR-mediated insertion Genovese, P., et al. of correct gene Nature 510, 235-240 sequence (2014) Hereditary CRISPR HDR-mediated Yin, H., et al. tyrosinemia correction of Nature mutation in liver biotechnology 32, 551-553 (2014)

Addressing each of the conditions of the foreging table, using the CRISPR-Cas (eg Cas9) system to target by either HDR-mediated correction of mutation, or HDR-mediated insertion of correct gene sequence, advantageously via a delivery system as herein, e.g., a particle delivery system, is within the ambit of the skilled person from this disclosure and the knowledge in the art. Thus, an embodiment comprehends contacting a Hemophilia B, SCID (e.g., SCID-X1, ADA-SCID) or Hereditary tyrosinemia mutation-carrying HSC with an sgRNA-and-Cas (eg Cas9) protein containing particle targeting a genomic locus of interest as to Hemophilia B, SCID (e.g., SCID-X1, ADA-SCID) or Hereditary tyrosinemia (e.g., as in Li, Genovese or Yin). The particle also can contain a suitable HDR template to correct the mutation; or the HSC can be contacted with a second particle or a vector that contains or delivers the HDR template. In this regard, it is mentioned that Haemophilia B is an X-linked recessive disorder caused by loss-of-function mutations in the gene encoding Factor IX, a crucial component of the clotting cascade. Recovering Factor IX activity to above 1% of its levels in severely affected individuals can transform the disease into a significantly milder form, as infusion of recombinant Factor IX into such patients prophylactically from a young age to achieve such levels largely ameliorates clinical complications. With the knowledge in the art and the teachings in this disclosure, the skilled person can correct HSCs as to Haemophilia B using a CRISPR-Cas (eg Cas9) system that targets and corrects the mutation (X-linked recessive disorder caused by loss-of-function mutations in the gene encoding Factor IX) (e.g., with a suitable HDR template that delivers a coding sequence for Factor IX); specifically, the sgRNA can target mutation that give rise to Haemophilia B, and the HDR can provide coding for proper expression of Factor IX. An sgRNA that targets the mutation-and-Cas (eg Cas9) protein containing particle is contacted with HSCs carrying the mutation. The particle also can contain a suitable HDR template to correct the mutation for proper expression of Factor IX; or the HSC can be contacted with a second particle or a vector that contains or delivers the HDR template. The so contacted cells can be administered; and optionally treated/expanded; cf. Cartier, discussed herein.

In Cartier, “MINI-SYMPOSIUM: X-Linked Adrenoleukodystrophypa, Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation and Hematopoietic Stem Cell Gene Therapy in X-Linked Adrenoleukodystrophy,” Brain Pathology 20 (2010) 857-862, incorporated herein by reference along with the documents it cites, as if set out in full, there is recognition that allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) was utilized to deliver normal lysosomal enzyme to the brain of a patient with Hurler's disease, and a discussion of HSC gene therapy to treat ALD. In two patients, peripheral CD34+ cells were collected after granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) mobilization and transduced with an myeloproliferative sarcoma virus enhancer, negative control region deleted, d1587rev primer binding site substituted (MND)-ALD lentiviral vector. CD34+ cells from the patients were transduced with the MND-ALD vector during 16 h in the presence of cytokines at low concentrations. Transduced CD34+ cells were frozen after transduction to perform on 5% of cells various safety tests that included in particular three replication-competent lentivirus (RCL) assays. Transduction efficacy of CD34+ cells ranged from 35% to 50% with a mean number of lentiviral integrated copy between 0.65 and 0.70. After the thawing of transduced CD34+ cells, the patients were reinfused with more than 4.106 transduced CD34+ cells/kg following full myeloablation with busulfan and cyclophos-phamide. The patient's HSCs were ablated to favor engraftment of the gene-corrected HSCs. Hematological recovery occurred between days 13 and 15 for the two patients. Nearly complete immunological recovery occurred at 12 months for the first patient, and at 9 months for the second patient. In contrast to using lentivirus, with the knowledge in the art and the teachings in this disclosure, the skilled person can correct HSCs as to ALD using a CRISPR-Cas (Cas9) system that targets and corrects the mutation (e.g., with a suitable HDR template); specifically, the sgRNA can target mutations in ABCD1, a gene located on the X chromosome that codes for ALD, a peroxisomal membrane transporter protein, and the HDR can provide coding for proper expression of the protein. An sgRNA that targets the mutation-and-Cas (Cas9) protein containing particle is contacted with HSCs, e.g., CD34+ cells carrying the mutation as in Cartier. The particle also can contain a suitable HDR template to correct the mutation for expression of the peroxisomal membrane transporter protein; or the HSC can be contacted with a second particle or a vector that contains or delivers the HDR template. The so contacted cells optinally can be treated as in Cartier. The so contacted cells can be administered as in Cartier.

Mention is made of WO 2015/148860, through the teachings herein the invention comprehends methods and materials of these documents applied in conjunction with the teachings herein. In an aspect of blood-related disease gene therapy, methods and compositions for treating beta thalassemia may be adapted to the CRISPR-Cas system of the present invention (see, e.g., WO 2015/148860). In an embodiment, WO 2015/148860 involves the treatment or prevention of beta thalassemia, or its symptoms, e.g., by altering the gene for B-cell CLL/lymphoma 11A (BCL11A). The BCL11A gene is also known as B-cell CLL/lymphoma 11A, BCL11A-L, BCL11A-S, BCL11AXL, CTIP 1, HBFQTL5 and ZNF. BCL11A encodes a zinc-finger protein that is involved in the regulation of globin gene expression. By altering the BCL11A gene (e.g., one or both alleles of the BCL11A gene), the levels of gamma globin can be increased. Gamma globin can replace beta globin in the hemoglobin complex and effectively carry oxygen to tissues, thereby ameliorating beta thalassemia disease phenotypes.

Mention is also made of WO 2015/148863 and through the teachings herein the invention comprehends methods and materials of these documents which may be adapted to the CRISPR-Cas system of the present invention. In an aspect of treating and preventing sickle cell disease, which is an inherited hematologic disease, WO 2015/148863 comprehends altering the BCL11A gene. By altering the BCL11A gene (e.g., one or both alleles of the BCL11A gene), the levels of gamma globin can be increased. Gamma globin can replace beta globin in the hemoglobin complex and effectively carry oxygen to tissues, thereby ameliorating sickle cell disease phenotypes.

In an aspect of the invention, methods and compositions which involve editing a target nucleic acid sequence, or modulating expression of a target nucleic acid sequence, and applications thereof in connection with cancer immunotherapy are comprehended by adapting the CRISPR-Cas system of the present invention. Reference is made to the application of gene therapy in WO 2015/161276 which involves methods and compositions which can be used to affect T-cell proliferation, survival and/or function by altering one or more T-cell expressed genes, e.g., one or more of FAS, BID, CTLA4, PDCD1, CBLB, PTPN6, TRAC and/or TRBC genes. In a related aspect, T-cell proliferation can be affected by altering one or more T-cell expressed genes, e.g., the CBLB and/or PTPN6 gene, FAS and/or BID gene, CTLA4 and/or PDCDI and/or TRAC and/or TRBC gene.

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)19 T-cells exhibit anti-leukemic effects in patient malignancies. However, leukemia patients often do not have enough T-cells to collect, meaning that treatment must involve modified T cells from donors. Accordingly, there is interest in establishing a bank of donor T-cells. Qasim et al. (“First Clinical Application of Talen Engineered Universal CAR19 T Cells in B-ALL” ASH 57th Annual Meeting and Exposition, Dec. 5-8, 2015, Abstract 2046 (https://ash.confex.com/ash/2015/webprogram/Paper81653.html published online November 2015) discusses modifying CAR19 T cells to eliminate the risk of graft-versus-host disease through the disruption of T-cell receptor expression and CD52 targeting. Furthermore, CD52 cells were targeted such that they became insensitive to Alemtuzumab, and thus allowed Alemtuzumab to prevent host-mediated rejection of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) mismatched CAR19 T-cells. Investigators used third generation self-inactivating lentiviral vector encoding a 4g7 CAR19 (CD19 scFv-4-1BB-CD3ζ) linked to RQR8, then electroporated cells with two pairs of TALEN mRNA for multiplex targeting for both the T-cell receptor (TCR) alpha constant chain locus and the CD52 gene locus. Cells which were still expressing TCR following ex vivo expansion were depleted using CliniMacs α/β TCR depletion, yielding a T-cell product (UCART19) with <1% TCR expression, 85% of which expressed CAR19, and 64% becoming CD52 negative. The modified CAR19 T cells were administered to treat a patient's relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The teachings provided herein provide effective methods for providing modified hematopoietic stem cells and progeny thereof, including but not limited to cells of the myeloid and lymphoid lineages of blood, including T cells, B cells, monocytes, macrophages, neutrophils, basophils, eosinophils, erythrocytes, dendritic cells, and megakaryocytes or platelets, and natural killer cells and their precursors and progenitors. Such cells can be modified by knocking out, knocking in, or otherwise modulating targets, for example to remove or modulate CD52 as described above, and other targets, such as, without limitation, CXCR4, and PD-1. Thus compositions, cells, and method of the invention can be used to modulate immune responses and to treat, without limitation, malignancies, viral infections, and immune disorders, in conjunction with modification of administration of T cells or other cells to patients.

Mention is made of WO 2015/148670 and through the teachings herein the invention comprehends methods and materials of this document applied in conjunction with the teachings herein. In an aspect of gene therapy, methods and compositions for editing of a target sequence related to or in connection with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) are comprehended. In a related aspect, the invention described herein comprehends prevention and treatment of HIV infection and AIDS, by introducing one or more mutations in the gene for C-C chemokine receptor type 5 (CCR5). The CCR5 gene is also known as CKR5, CCR-5, CD195, CKR-5, CCCKR5, CMKBR5, IDDM22, and CC-CKR-5. In a further aspect, the invention described herein comprehends provide for prevention or reduction of HIV infection and/or prevention or reduction of the ability for HIV to enter host cells, e.g., in subjects who are already infected. Exemplary host cells for HIV include, but are not limited to, CD4 cells, T cells, gut associated lymphatic tissue (GALT), macrophages, dendritic cells, myeloid precursor cell, and microglia. Viral entry into the host cells requires interaction of the viral glycoproteins gp41 and gp120 with both the CD4 receptor and a co-receptor, e.g., CCR5. If a co-receptor, e.g., CCR5, is not present on the surface of the host cells, the virus cannot bind and enter the host cells. The progress of the disease is thus impeded. By knocking out or knocking down CCR5 in the host cells, e.g., by introducing a protective mutation (such as a CCR5 delta 32 mutation), entry of the HIV virus into the host cells is prevented.

X-linked Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is a hereditary disorder of host defense due to absent or decreased activity of phagocyte NADPH oxidase. Using a CRISPR-Cas (Cas9) system that targets and corrects the mutation (absent or decreased activity of phagocyte NADPH oxidase) (e.g., with a suitable HDR template that delivers a coding sequence for phagocyte NADPH oxidase); specifically, the sgRNA can target mutation that gives rise to CGD (deficient phagocyte NADPH oxidase), and the HDR can provide coding for proper expression of phagocyte NADPH oxidase. An sgRNA that targets the mutation-and-Cas (Cas9) protein containing particle is contacted with HSCs carrying the mutation. The particle also can contain a suitable HDR template to correct the mutation for proper expression of phagocyte NADPH oxidase; or the HSC can be contacted with a second particle or a vector that contains or delivers the HDR template. The so contacted cells can be administered; and optionally treated/expanded; cf. Cartier.

Fanconi anemia: Mutations in at least 15 genes (FANCA, FANCB, FANCC, FANCD1/BRCA2, FANCD2, FANCE, FANCF, FANCG, FANCI, FANCNJ/BACH1/BRIP1, FANCL/PHF9/POG, FANCM, FANCN/PALB2, FANCO/Rad51C, and FANCP/SLX4/BTBD12) can cause Fanconi anemia. Proteins produced from these genes are involved in a cell process known as the FA pathway. The FA pathway is turned on (activated) when the process of making new copies of DNA, called DNA replication, is blocked due to DNA damage. The FA pathway sends certain proteins to the area of damage, which trigger DNA repair so DNA replication can continue. The FA pathway is particularly responsive to a certain type of DNA damage known as interstrand cross-links (ICLs). ICLs occur when two DNA building blocks (nucleotides) on opposite strands of DNA are abnormally attached or linked together, which stops the process of DNA replication. ICLs can be caused by a buildup of toxic substances produced in the body or by treatment with certain cancer therapy drugs. Eight proteins associated with Fanconi anemia group together to form a complex known as the FA core complex. The FA core complex activates two proteins, called FANCD2 and FANCI. The activation of these two proteins brings DNA repair proteins to the area of the ICL so the cross-link can be removed and DNA replication can continue. the FA core complex. More in particular, the FA core complex is a nuclear multiprotein complex consisting of FANCA, FANCB, FANCC, FANCE, FANCF, FANCG, FANCL, and FANCM, functions as an E3 ubiquitin ligase and mediates the activation of the ID complex, which is a heterodimer composed of FANCD2 and FANCI. Once monoubiquitinated, it interacts with classical tumor suppressors downstream of the FA pathway including FANCD1/BRCA2, FANCN/PALB2, FANCJ/BRIP1, and FANCO/Rad51C and thereby contributes to DNA repair via homologous recombination (HR). Eighty to 90 percent of FA cases are due to mutations in one of three genes, FANCA, FANCC, and FANCG. These genes provide instructions for producing components of the FA core complex. Mutations in such genes associated with the FA core complex will cause the complex to be nonfunctional and disrupt the entire FA pathway. As a result, DNA damage is not repaired efficiently and ICLs build up over time. Geiselhart, “Review Article, Disrupted Signaling through the Fanconi Anemia Pathway Leads to Dysfunctional Hematopoietic Stem Cell Biology: Underlying Mechanisms and Potential Therapeutic Strategies,” Anemia Volume 2012 (2012), Article ID 265790, http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2012/265790 discussed FA and an animal experiment involving intrafemoral injection of a lentivirus encoding the FANCC gene resulting in correction of HSCs in vivo. Using a CRISPR-Cas (Cas9) system that targets and one or more of the mutations associated with FA, for instance a CRISPR-Cas (Cas9) system having sgRNA(s) and HDR template(s) that respectively targets one or more of the mutations of FANCA, FANCC, or FANCG that give rise to FA and provide corrective expression of one or more of FANCA, FANCC or FANCG; e.g., the sgRNA can target a mutation as to FANCC, and the HDR can provide coding for proper expression of FANCC. An sgRNA that targets the mutation(s) (e.g., one or more involved in FA, such as mutation(s) as to any one or more of FANCA, FANCC or FANCG)-and-Cas (Cas9) protein containing particle is contacted with HSCs carrying the mutation(s). The particle also can contain a suitable HDR template(s) to correct the mutation for proper expression of one or more of the proteins involved in FA, such as any one or more of FANCA, FANCC or FANCG; or the HSC can be contacted with a second particle or a vector that contains or delivers the HDR template. The so contacted cells can be administered; and optionally treated/expanded; cf. Cartier.

The particle in the herein discussion (e.g., as to containing sgRNA(s) and Cas (Cas9), optionally HDR template(s), or HDR template(s); for instance as to Hemophilia B, SCID, SCID-X1, ADA-SCID, Hereditary tyrosinemia, β-thalassemia, X-linked CGD, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, Fanconi anemia, adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD), metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD), HIV/AIDS, Immunodeficiency disorder, Hematologic condition, or genetic lysosomal storage disease) is advantageously obtained or obtainable from admixing an sgRNA(s) and Cas (Cas9) protein mixture (optionally containing HDR template(s) or such mixture only containing HDR template(s) when separate particles as to template(s) is desired) with a mixture comprising or consisting essentially of or consisting of surfactant, phospholipid, biodegradable polymer, lipoprotein and alcohol (wherein one or more sgRNA targets the genetic locus or loci in the HSC).

Indeed, the invention is especially suited for treating hematopoietic genetic disorders with genome editing, and immunodeficiency disorders, such as genetic immunodeficiency disorders, especially through using the particle technology herein-discussed. Genetic immunodeficiencies are diseases where genome editing interventions of the instant invention can successful. The reasons include: Hematopoietic cells, of which immune cells are a subset, are therapeutically accessible. They can be removed from the body and transplanted autologously or allogenically. Further, certain genetic immunodeficiencies, e.g., severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), create a proliferative disadvantage for immune cells. Correction of genetic lesions causing SCID by rare, spontaneous ‘reverse’ mutations indicates that correcting even one lymphocyte progenitor may be sufficient to recover immune function in patients . . . / . . . / . . . /Users/t kowalski/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/Temporary Internet Files/Content.Outlook/GA8VY8LK/Treating SCID for Ellen.docx—_ENREF_1 See Bousso, P., et al. Diversity, functionality, and stability of the T cell repertoire derived in vivo from a single human T cell precursor. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 97, 274-278 (2000). The selective advantage for edited cells allows for even low levels of editing to result in a therapeutic effect. This effect of the instant invention can be seen in SCID, Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome, and the other conditions mentioned herein, including other genetic hematopoietic disorders such as alpha- and beta-thalassemia, where hemoglobin deficiencies negatively affect the fitness of erythroid progenitors.

The activity of NHEJ and HDR DSB repair varies significantly by cell type and cell state. NHEJ is not highly regulated by the cell cycle and is efficient across cell types, allowing for high levels of gene disruption in accessible target cell populations. In contrast, HDR acts primarily during S/G2 phase, and is therefore restricted to cells that are actively dividing, limiting treatments that require precise genome modifications to mitotic cells [Ciccia, A. & Elledge, S. J. Molecular cell 40, 179-204 (2010); Chapman, J. R., et al. Molecular cell 47, 497-510 (2012)].

The efficiency of correction via HDR may be controlled by the epigenetic state or sequence of the targeted locus, or the specific repair template configuration (single vs. double stranded, long vs. short homology arms) used [Hacein-Bey-Abina, S., et al. The New England journal of medicine 346, 1185-1193 (2002); Gaspar, H. B., et al. Lancet 364, 2181-2187 (2004); Beumer, K. J., et al. G3 (2013)]. The relative activity of NHEJ and HDR machineries in target cells may also affect gene correction efficiency, as these pathways may compete to resolve DSBs [Beumer, K. J., et al. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 105, 19821-19826 (2008)]. HDR also imposes a delivery challenge not seen with NHEJ strategies, as it requires the concurrent delivery of nucleases and repair templates. In practice, these constraints have so far led to low levels of HDR in therapeutically relevant cell types. Clinical translation has therefore largely focused on NHEJ strategies to treat disease, although proof-of-concept preclinical HDR treatments have now been described for mouse models of haemophilia B and hereditary tyrosinemia [Li, H., et al. Nature 475, 217-221 (2011); Yin, H., et al. Nature biotechnology 32, 551-553 (2014)].

Any given genome editing application may comprise combinations of proteins, small RNA molecules, and/or repair templates, making delivery of these multiple parts substantially more challenging than small molecule therapeutics. Two main strategies for delivery of genome editing tools have been developed: ex vivo and in vivo. In ex vivo treatments, diseased cells are removed from the body, edited and then transplanted back into the patient. Ex vivo editing has the advantage of allowing the target cell population to be well defined and the specific dosage of therapeutic molecules delivered to cells to be specified. The latter consideration may be particularly important when off-target modifications are a concern, as titrating the amount of nuclease may decrease such mutations (Hsu et al., 2013). Another advantage of ex vivo approaches is the typically high editing rates that can be achieved, due to the development of efficient delivery systems for proteins and nucleic acids into cells in culture for research and gene therapy applications.

There may be drawbacks with ex vivo approaches that limit application to a small number of diseases. For instance, target cells must be capable of surviving manipulation outside the body. For many tissues, like the brain, culturing cells outside the body is a major challenge, because cells either fail to survive, or lose properties necessary for their function in vivo. Thus, in view of this disclosure and the knowledge in the art, ex vivo therapy as to tissues with adult stem cell populations amenable to ex vivo culture and manipulation, such as the hematopoietic system, by the CRISPR-Cas (Cas9) system are enabled. [Bunn, H. F. & Aster, J. Pathophysiology of blood disorders, (McGraw-Hill, New York, 2011)]

In vivo genome editing involves direct delivery of editing systems to cell types in their native tissues. In vivo editing allows diseases in which the affected cell population is not amenable to ex vivo manipulation to be treated. Furthermore, delivering nucleases to cells in situ allows for the treatment of multiple tissue and cell types. These properties probably allow in vivo treatment to be applied to a wider range of diseases than ex vivo therapies.

To date, in vivo editing has largely been achieved through the use of viral vectors with defined, tissue-specific tropism. Such vectors are currently limited in terms of cargo carrying capacity and tropism, restricting this mode of therapy to organ systems where transduction with clinically useful vectors is efficient, such as the liver, muscle and eye [Kotterman, M. A. & Schaffer, D. V. Nature reviews. Genetics 15, 445-451 (2014); Nguyen, T. H. & Ferry, N. Gene therapy 11 Suppl 1, S76-84 (2004); Boye, S. E., et al. Molecular therapy: the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy 21, 509-519 (2013)].

A potential barrier for in vivo delivery is the immune response that may be created in response to the large amounts of virus necessary for treatment, but this phenomenon is not unique to genome editing and is observed with other virus based gene therapies [Bessis, N., et al. Gene therapy 11 Suppl 1, S10-17 (2004)]. It is also possible that peptides from editing nucleases themselves are presented on MHC Class I molecules to stimulate an immune response, although there is little evidence to support this happening at the preclinical level. Another major difficulty with this mode of therapy is controlling the distribution and consequently the dosage of genome editing nucleases in vivo, leading to off-target mutation profiles that may be difficult to predict. However, in view of this disclosure and the knowledge in the art, including the use of virus- and particle-based therapies being used in the treatment of cancers, in vivo modification of HSCs, for instance by delivery by either particle or virus, is within the ambit of the skilled person.

Ex Vivo Editing Therapy: The long standing clinical expertise with the purification, culture and transplantation of hematopoietic cells has made diseases affecting the blood system such as SCID, Fanconi anemia, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome and sickle cell anemia the focus of ex vivo editing therapy. Another reason to focus on hematopoietic cells is that, thanks to previous efforts to design gene therapy for blood disorders, delivery systems of relatively high efficiency already exist. With these advantages, this mode of therapy can be applied to diseases where edited cells possess a fitness advantage, so that a small number of engrafted, edited cells can expand and treat disease. One such disease is HIV, where infection results in a fitness disadvantage to CD4+ T cells.

Ex vivo editing therapy has been recently extended to include gene correction strategies. The barriers to HDR ex vivo were overcome in a recent paper from Genovese and colleagues, who achieved gene correction of a mutated IL2RG gene in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) obtained from a patient suffering from SCID-X1 [Genovese, P., et al. Nature 510, 235-240 (2014)]. Genovese et. al. accomplished gene correction in HSCs using a multimodal strategy. First, HSCs were transduced using integration-deficient lentivirus containing an HDR template encoding a therapeutic cDNA for IL2RG. Following transduction, cells were electroporated with mRNA encoding ZFNs targeting a mutational hotspot in IL2RG to stimulate HDR based gene correction. To increase HDR rates, culture conditions were optimized with small molecules to encourage HSC division. With optimized culture conditions, nucleases and HDR templates, gene corrected HSCs from the SCID-X1 patient were obtained in culture at therapeutically relevant rates. HSCs from unaffected individuals that underwent the same gene correction procedure could sustain long-term hematopoiesis in mice, the gold standard for HSC function. HSCs are capable of giving rise to all hematopoietic cell types and can be autologously transplanted, making them an extremely valuable cell population for all hematopoietic genetic disorders [Weissman, I. L. & Shizuru, J. A. Blood 112, 3543-3553 (2008)]. Gene corrected HSCs could, in principle, be used to treat a wide range of genetic blood disorders making this study an exciting breakthrough for therapeutic genome editing.

In Vivo Editing Therapy: In vivo editing can be used advantageously from this disclosure and the knowledge in the art. For organ systems where delivery is efficient, there have already been a number of exciting preclinical therapeutic successes. The first example of successful in vivo editing therapy was demonstrated in a mouse model of haemophilia B [Li, H., et al. Nature 475, 217-221 (2011)]. As noted earlier, Haemophilia B is an X-linked recessive disorder caused by loss-of-function mutations in the gene encoding Factor IX, a crucial component of the clotting cascade. Recovering Factor IX activity to above 1% of its levels in severely affected individuals can transform the disease into a significantly milder form, as infusion of recombinant Factor IX into such patients prophylactically from a young age to achieve such levels largely ameliorates clinical complications [Lofqvist, T., et al. Journal of internal medicine 241, 395-400 (1997)]. Thus, only low levels of HDR gene correction are necessary to change clinical outcomes for patients. In addition, Factor IX is synthesized and secreted by the liver, an organ that can be transduced efficiently by viral vectors encoding editing systems.

Using hepatotropic adeno-associated viral (AAV) serotypes encoding ZFNs and a corrective HDR template, up to 7% gene correction of a mutated, humanized Factor IX gene in the murine liver was achieved [Li, H., et al. Nature 475, 217-221 (2011)]. This resulted in improvement of clot formation kinetics, a measure of the function of the clotting cascade, demonstrating for the first time that in vivo editing therapy is not only feasible, but also efficacious. As discussed herein, the skilled person is positioned from the teachings herein and the knowledge in the art, e.g., Li to address Haemophilia B with a particle-containing HDR template and a CRISPR-Cas (Cas9) system that targets the mutation of the X-linked recessive disorder to reverse the loss-of-function mutation.

Building on this study, other groups have recently used in vivo genome editing of the liver with CRISPR-Cas to successfully treat a mouse model of hereditary tyrosinemia and to create mutations that provide protection against cardiovascular disease. These two distinct applications demonstrate the versatility of this approach for disorders that involve hepatic dysfunction [Yin, H., et al. Nature biotechnology 32, 551-553 (2014); Ding, Q., et al. Circulation research 115, 488-492 (2014)]. Application of in vivo editing to other organ systems are necessary to prove that this strategy is widely applicable. Currently, efforts to optimize both viral and non-viral vectors are underway to expand the range of disorders that can be treated with this mode of therapy [Kotterman, M. A. & Schaffer, D. V. Nature reviews. Genetics 15, 445-451 (2014); Yin, H., et al. Nature reviews. Genetics 15, 541-555 (2014)]. As discussed herein, the skilled person is positioned from the teachings herein and the knowledge in the art, e.g., Yin to address hereditary tyrosinemia with a particle-containing HDR template and a CRISPR-Cas (Cas9) system that targets the mutation.

Targeted deletion, therapeutic applications: Targeted deletion of genes may be preferred. Preferred are, therefore, genes involved in immunodeficiency disorder, hematologic condition, or genetic lysosomal storage disease, e.g., Hemophilia B, SCID, SCID-X1, ADA-SCID, Hereditary tyrosinemia, β-thalassemia, X-linked CGD, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, Fanconi anemia, adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD), metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD), HIV/AIDS, other metabolic disorders, genes encoding mis-folded proteins involved in diseases, genes leading to loss-of-function involved in diseases; generally, mutations that can be targeted in an HSC, using any herein-discussed delivery system, with the particle system considered advantageous.

In the present invention, the immunogenicity of the CRISPR enzyme in particular may be reduced following the approach first set out in Tangri et al with respect to erythropoietin and subsequently developed. Accordingly, directed evolution or rational design may be used to reduce the immunogenicity of the CRISPR enzyme (for instance a Cas9) in the host species (human or other species).

Genome editing: The CRISPR/Cas (Cas9) systems of the present invention can be used to correct genetic mutations that were previously attempted with limited success using TALEN and ZFN and lentiviruses, including as herein discussed; see also WO2013163628.

Adoptive Cell Therapies

The present invention also contemplates use of the CRISPR-Cas system described herein, e.g. Cas9 effector protein systems, to modify cells for adoptive therapies. Aspects of the invention involve the adoptive transfer of immune system cells, such as T cells, specific for selected antigens, such as tumor associated antigens (see Maus et al., 2014, Adoptive Immunotherapy for Cancer or Viruses, Annual Review of Immunology, Vol. 32: 189-225; Rosenberg and Restifo, 2015, Adoptive cell transfer as personalized immunotherapy for human cancer, Science Vol. 348 no. 6230 pp. 62-68; Restifo et al., 2015, Adoptive immunotherapy for cancer: harnessing the T cell response. Nat. Rev. Immunol. 12(4): 269-281; and Jenson and Riddell, 2014, Design and implementation of adoptive therapy with chimeric antigen receptor-modified T cells. Immunol Rev. 257(1): 127-144). Various strategies may for example be employed to genetically modify T cells by altering the specificity of the T cell receptor (TCR) for example by introducing new TCR α and β chains with selected peptide specificity (see U.S. Pat. No. 8,697,854; PCT Patent Publications: WO2003020763, WO2004033685, WO2004044004, WO2005114215, WO2006000830, WO2008038002, WO2008039818, WO2004074322, WO2005113595, WO2006125962, WO2013166321, WO2013039889, WO2014018863, WO2014083173; U.S. Pat. No. 8,088,379).

As an alternative to, or addition to, TCR modifications, chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) may be used in order to generate immunoresponsive cells, such as T cells, specific for selected targets, such as malignant cells, with a wide variety of receptor chimera constructs having been described (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,843,728; 5,851,828; 5,912,170; 6,004,811; 6,284,240; 6,392,013; 6,410,014; 6,753,162; 8,211,422; and, PCT Publication WO9215322). Alternative CAR constructs may be characterized as belonging to successive generations. First-generation CARs typically consist of a single-chain variable fragment of an antibody specific for an antigen, for example comprising a V_(L) linked to a V_(H) of a specific antibody, linked by a flexible linker, for example by a CD8a hinge domain and a CD8a transmembrane domain, to the transmembrane and intracellular signaling domains of either CD3ζ or FcRγ (scFv-CD3ζ or scFv-FcRγ; see U.S. Pat. No. 7,741,465; U.S. Pat. No. 5,912,172; U.S. Pat. No. 5,906,936). Second-generation CARs incorporate the intracellular domains of one or more costimulatory molecules, such as CD28, OX40 (CD134), or 4-1BB (CD137) within the endodomain (for example scFv-CD28/OX40/4-1BB-CD3ζ; see U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,911,993; 8,916,381; 8,975,071; 9,101,584; 9,102,760; 9,102,761). Third-generation CARs include a combination of costimulatory endodomains, such a CD3ζ-chain, CD97, GDI la-CD18, CD2, ICOS, CD27, CD154, CDS, OX40, 4-1BB, or CD28 signaling domains (for example scFv-CD28-4-1BB-CD3ζ or scFv-CD28-OX40-CD3ζ; see U.S. Pat. No. 8,906,682; U.S. Pat. No. 8,399,645; U.S. Pat. No. 5,686,281; PCT Publication No. WO2014134165; PCT Publication No. WO2012079000). Alternatively, costimulation may be orchestrated by expressing CARs in antigen-specific T cells, chosen so as to be activated and expanded following engagement of their native αβTCR, for example by antigen on professional antigen-presenting cells, with attendant costimulation. In addition, additional engineered receptors may be provided on the immunoresponsive cells, for example to improve targeting of a T-cell attack and/or minimize side effects.

Alternative techniques may be used to transform target immunoresponsive cells, such as protoplast fusion, lipofection, transfection or electroporation. A wide variety of vectors may be used, such as retroviral vectors, lentiviral vectors, adenoviral vectors, adeno-associated viral vectors, plasmids or transposons, such as a Sleeping Beauty transposon (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,489,458; 7,148,203; 7,160,682; 7,985,739; 8,227,432), may be used to introduce CARs, for example using 2nd generation antigen-specific CARs signaling through CD3ζ and either CD28 or CD137. Viral vectors may for example include vectors based on HIV, SV40, EBV, HSV or BPV.

Cells that are targeted for transformation may for example include T cells, Natural Killer (NK) cells, cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL), regulatory T cells, human embryonic stem cells, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) or a pluripotent stem cell from which lymphoid cells may be differentiated. T cells expressing a desired CAR may for example be selected through co-culture with γ-irradiated activating and propagating cells (AaPC), which co-express the cancer antigen and co-stimulatory molecules. The engineered CAR T-cells may be expanded, for example by co-culture on AaPC in presence of soluble factors, such as IL-2 and IL-21. This expansion may for example be carried out so as to provide memory CAR+ T cells (which may for example be assayed by non-enzymatic digital array and/or multi-panel flow cytometry). In this way, CAR T cells may be provided that have specific cytotoxic activity against antigen-bearing tumors (optionally in conjunction with production of desired chemokines such as interferon-γ). CAR T cells of this kind may for example be used in animal models, for example to treat tumor xenografts.

Approaches such as the foregoing may be adapted to provide methods of treating and/or increasing survival of a subject having a disease, such as a neoplasia, for example by administering an effective amount of an immunoresponsive cell comprising an antigen recognizing receptor that binds a selected antigen, wherein the binding activates the immunoreponsive cell, thereby treating or preventing the disease (such as a neoplasia, a pathogen infection, an autoimmune disorder, or an allogeneic transplant reaction). Dosing in CAR T cell therapies may for example involve administration of from 106 to 109 cells/kg, with or without a course of lymphodepletion, for example with cyclophosphamide.

In one embodiment, the treatment can be administrated into patients undergoing an immunosuppressive treatment. The cells or population of cells, may be made resistant to at least one immunosuppressive agent due to the inactivation of a gene encoding a receptor for such immunosuppressive agent. Not being bound by a theory, the immunosuppressive treatment should help the selection and expansion of the immunoresponsive or T cells according to the invention within the patient.

The administration of the cells or population of cells according to the present invention may be carried out in any convenient manner, including by aerosol inhalation, injection, ingestion, transfusion, implantation or transplantation. The cells or population of cells may be administered to a patient subcutaneously, intradermally, intratumorally, intranodally, intramedullary, intramuscularly, by intravenous or intralymphatic injection, or intraperitoneally. In one embodiment, the cell compositions of the present invention are preferably administered by intravenous injection.

The administration of the cells or population of cells can consist of the administration of 10⁴-10⁹ cells per kg body weight, preferably 10⁵ to 10⁶ cells/kg body weight including all integer values of cell numbers within those ranges. Dosing in CAR T cell therapies may for example involve administration of from 10⁶ to 10⁹ cells/kg, with or without a course of lymphodepletion, for example with cyclophosphamide. The cells or population of cells can be administrated in one or more doses. In another embodiment, the effective amount of cells are administrated as a single dose. In another embodiment, the effective amount of cells are administrated as more than one dose over a period time. Timing of administration is within the judgment of managing physician and depends on the clinical condition of the patient. The cells or population of cells may be obtained from any source, such as a blood bank or a donor. While individual needs vary, determination of optimal ranges of effective amounts of a given cell type for a particular disease or conditions are within the skill of one in the art. An effective amount means an amount which provides a therapeutic or prophylactic benefit. The dosage administrated will be dependent upon the age, health and weight of the recipient, kind of concurrent treatment, if any, frequency of treatment and the nature of the effect desired.

In another embodiment, the effective amount of cells or composition comprising those cells are administrated parenterally. The administration can be an intravenous administration. The administration can be directly done by injection within a tumor.

To guard against possible adverse reactions, engineered immunoresponsive cells may be equipped with a transgenic safety switch, in the form of a transgene that renders the cells vulnerable to exposure to a specific signal. For example, the herpes simplex viral thymidine kinase (TK) gene may be used in this way, for example by introduction into allogeneic T lymphocytes used as donor lymphocyte infusions following stem cell transplantation (Greco, et al., Improving the safety of cell therapy with the TK-suicide gene. Front. Pharmacol. 2015; 6: 95). In such cells, administration of a nucleoside prodrug such as ganciclovir or acyclovir causes cell death. Alternative safety switch constructs include inducible caspase 9, for example triggered by administration of a small-molecule dimerizer that brings together two nonfunctional icasp9 molecules to form the active enzyme. A wide variety of alternative approaches to implementing cellular proliferation controls have been described (see U.S. Patent Publication No. 20130071414; PCT Patent Publication WO2011146862; PCT Patent Publication WO2014011987; PCT Patent Publication WO2013040371; Zhou et al. BLOOD, 2014, 123/25:3895-3905; Di Stasi et al., The New England Journal of Medicine 2011; 365:1673-1683; Sadelain M, The New England Journal of Medicine 2011; 365:1735-173; Ramos et al., Stem Cells 28(6):1107-15 (2010)).

In a further refinement of adoptive therapies, genome editing may be used to tailor immunoresponsive cells to alternative implementations, for example providing edited CAR T cells (see Poirot et al., 2015, Multiplex genome edited T-cell manufacturing platform for “off-the-shelf” adoptive T-cell immunotherapies, Cancer Res 75 (18): 3853). Cells may be edited using any CRISPR system and method of use thereof as described herein. CRISPR systems may be delivered to an immune cell by any method described herein. In preferred embodiments, cells are edited ex vivo and transferred to a subject in need thereof. Immunoresponsive cells, CAR T cells or any cells used for adoptive cell transfer may be edited. Editing may be performed to eliminate potential alloreactive T-cell receptors (TCR), disrupt the target of a chemotherapeutic agent, block an immune checkpoint, activate a T cell, and/or increase the differentiation and/or proliferation of functionally exhausted or dysfunctional CD8+ T-cells (see PCT Patent Publications: WO2013176915, WO2014059173, WO2014172606, WO2014184744, and WO2014191128). Editing may result in inactivation of a gene.

By inactivating a gene it is intended that the gene of interest is not expressed in a functional protein form. In a particular embodiment, the CRISPR system specifically catalyzes cleavage in one targeted gene thereby inactivating said targeted gene. The nucleic acid strand breaks caused are commonly repaired through the distinct mechanisms of homologous recombination or non-homologous end joining (NHEJ). However, NHEJ is an imperfect repair process that often results in changes to the DNA sequence at the site of the cleavage. Repair via non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) often results in small insertions or deletions (Indel) and can be used for the creation of specific gene knockouts. Cells in which a cleavage induced mutagenesis event has occurred can be identified and/or selected by well-known methods in the art.

T cell receptors (TCR) are cell surface receptors that participate in the activation of T cells in response to the presentation of antigen. The TCR is generally made from two chains, α and β, which assemble to form a heterodimer and associates with the CD3-transducing subunits to form the T cell receptor complex present on the cell surface. Each α and β chain of the TCR consists of an immunoglobulin-like N-terminal variable (V) and constant (C) region, a hydrophobic transmembrane domain, and a short cytoplasmic region. As for immunoglobulin molecules, the variable region of the α and β chains are generated by V(D)J recombination, creating a large diversity of antigen specificities within the population of T cells. However, in contrast to immunoglobulins that recognize intact antigen, T cells are activated by processed peptide fragments in association with an MHC molecule, introducing an extra dimension to antigen recognition by T cells, known as MHC restriction. Recognition of MHC disparities between the donor and recipient through the T cell receptor leads to T cell proliferation and the potential development of graft versus host disease (GVHD). The inactivation of TCRα or TCRβ can result in the elimination of the TCR from the surface of T cells preventing recognition of alloantigen and thus GVHD. However, TCR disruption generally results in the elimination of the CD3 signaling component and alters the means of further T cell expansion.

Allogeneic cells are rapidly rejected by the host immune system. It has been demonstrated that, allogeneic leukocytes present in non-irradiated blood products will persist for no more than 5 to 6 days (Boni, Muranski et al. 2008 Blood 1; 112(12):4746-54). Thus, to prevent rejection of allogeneic cells, the host's immune system usually has to be suppressed to some extent. However, in the case of adoptive cell transfer the use of immunosuppressive drugs also have a detrimental effect on the introduced therapeutic T cells. Therefore, to effectively use an adoptive immunotherapy approach in these conditions, the introduced cells would need to be resistant to the immunosuppressive treatment. Thus, in a particular embodiment, the present invention further comprises a step of modifying T cells to make them resistant to an immunosuppressive agent, preferably by inactivating at least one gene encoding a target for an immunosuppressive agent. An immunosuppressive agent is an agent that suppresses immune function by one of several mechanisms of action. An immunosuppressive agent can be, but is not limited to a calcineurin inhibitor, a target of rapamycin, an interleukin-2 receptor α-chain blocker, an inhibitor of inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase, an inhibitor of dihydrofolic acid reductase, a corticosteroid or an immunosuppressive antimetabolite. The present invention allows conferring immunosuppressive resistance to T cells for immunotherapy by inactivating the target of the immunosuppressive agent in T cells. As non-limiting examples, targets for an immunosuppressive agent can be a receptor for an immunosuppressive agent such as: CD52, glucocorticoid receptor (GR), a FKBP family gene member and a cyclophilin family gene member.

Immune checkpoints are inhibitory pathways that slow down or stop immune reactions and prevent excessive tissue damage from uncontrolled activity of immune cells. In certain embodiments, the immune checkpoint targeted is the programmed death-1 (PD-1 or CD279) gene (PDCD1). In other embodiments, the immune checkpoint targeted is cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen (CTLA-4). In additional embodiments, the immune checkpoint targeted is another member of the CD28 and CTLA4 Ig superfamily such as BTLA, LAG3, ICOS, PDL1 or KIR. In further additional embodiments, the immune checkpoint targeted is a member of the TNFR superfamily such as CD40, OX40, CD137, GITR, CD27 or TIM-3.

Additional immune checkpoints include Src homology 2 domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase 1 (SHP-1) (Watson H A, et al., SHP-1: the next checkpoint target for cancer immunotherapy? Biochem Soc Trans. 2016 Apr. 15; 44(2):356-62). SHP-1 is a widely expressed inhibitory protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP). In T-cells, it is a negative regulator of antigen-dependent activation and proliferation. It is a cytosolic protein, and therefore not amenable to antibody-mediated therapies, but its role in activation and proliferation makes it an attractive target for genetic manipulation in adoptive transfer strategies, such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. Immune checkpoints may also include T cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains (TIGIT/Vstm3/WUCAM/VSIG9) and VISTA (Le Mercier I, et al., (2015) Beyond CTLA-4 and PD-1, the generation Z of negative checkpoint regulators. Front. Immunol. 6:418).

WO2014172606 relates to the use of MT1 and/or MT1 inhibitors to increase proliferation and/or activity of exhausted CD8+ T-cells and to decrease CD8+ T-cell exhaustion (e.g., decrease functionally exhausted or unresponsive CD8+ immune cells). In certain embodiments, metallothioneins are targeted by gene editing in adoptively transferred T cells.

In certain embodiments, targets of gene editing may be at least one targeted locus involved in the expression of an immune checkpoint protein. Such targets may include, but are not limited to CTLA4, PPP2CA, PPP2CB, PTPN6, PTPN22, PDCD1, ICOS (CD278), PDL1, KIR, LAG3, HAVCR2, BTLA, CD160, TIGIT, CD96, CRTAM, LAIR1, SIGLEC7, SIGLEC9, CD244 (2B4), TNFRSF10B, TNFRSF10A, CASP8, CASP10, CASP3, CASP6, CASP7, FADD, FAS, TGFBRII, TGFRBRI, SMAD2, SMAD3, SMAD4, SMAD10, SKI, SKIL, TGIF1, IL10RA, IL10RB, HMOX2, IL6R, IL6ST, EIF2AK4, CSK, PAG1, SIT1, FOXP3, PRDM1, BATF, VISTA, GUCY1A2, GUCY1A3, GUCY1B2, GUCY1B3, MT1, MT2, CD40, OX40, CD137, GITR, CD27, SHP-1 or TIM-3. In preferred embodiments, the gene locus involved in the expression of PD-1 or CTLA-4 genes is targeted. In other preferred embodiments, combinations of genes are targeted, such as but not limited to PD-1 and TIGIT.

In other embodiments, at least two genes are edited. Pairs of genes may include, but are not limited to PD1 and TCRα, PD1 and TCRβ, CTLA-4 and TCRα, CTLA-4 and TCRβ, LAG3 and TCRα, LAG3 and TCRβ, Tim3 and TCRα, Tim3 and TCRβ, BTLA and TCRα, BTLA and TCRβ, BY55 and TCRα, BY55 and TCRβ, TIGIT and TCRα, TIGIT and TCRβ, B7H5 and TCRα, B7H5 and TCRβ, LAIR1 and TCRα, LAIR1 and TCRβ, SIGLEC10 and TCRα, SIGLEC10 and TCRβ, 2B4 and TCRα, 2B4 and TCRβ.

Whether prior to or after genetic modification of the T cells, the T cells can be activated and expanded generally using methods as described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,352,694; 6,534,055; 6,905,680; 5,858,358; 6,887,466; 6,905,681; 7,144,575; 7,232,566; 7,175,843; 5,883,223; 6,905,874; 6,797,514; 6,867,041; and 7,572,631. T cells can be expanded in vitro or in vivo.

The practice of the present invention employs, unless otherwise indicated, conventional techniques of immunology, biochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, cell biology, genomics and recombinant DNA, which are within the skill of the art. See MOLECULAR CLONING: A LABORATORY MANUAL, 2nd edition (1989) (Sambrook, Fritsch and Maniatis); MOLECULAR CLONING: A LABORATORY MANUAL, 4th edition (2012) (Green and Sambrook); CURRENT PROTOCOLS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (1987) (F. M. Ausubel, et al. eds.); the series METHODS IN ENZYMOLOGY (Academic Press, Inc.); PCR 2: A PRACTICAL APPROACH (1995) (M. J. MacPherson, B. D. Hames and G. R. Taylor eds.); ANTIBODIES, A LABORATORY MANUAL (1988) (Harlow and Lane, eds.); ANTIBODIES A LABORATORY MANUAL, 2nd edition (2013) (E. A. Greenfield ed.); and ANIMAL CELL CULTURE (1987) (R. I. Freshney, ed.).

The practice of the present invention employs, unless otherwise indicated, conventional techniques for generation of genetically modified mice. See Marten H. Hofker and Jan van Deursen, TRANSGENIC MOUSE METHODS AND PROTOCOLS, 2nd edition (2011).

ALS

US Patent Publication No. 20110023144, describes use of zinc finger nucleases to genetically modify cells, animals and proteins associated with amyotrophyic lateral sclerosis (ALS) disease. ALS is characterized by the gradual steady degeneration of certain nerve cells in the brain cortex, brain stem, and spinal cord involved in voluntary movement.

Motor neuron disorders and the proteins associated with these disorders are a diverse set of proteins that effect susceptibility for developing a motor neuron disorder, the presence of the motor neuron disorder, the severity of the motor neuron disorder or any combination thereof. The present disclosure comprises editing of any chromosomal sequences that encode proteins associated with ALS disease, a specific motor neuron disorder. The proteins associated with ALS are typically selected based on an experimental association of ALS-related proteins to ALS. For example, the production rate or circulating concentration of a protein associated with ALS may be elevated or depressed in a population with ALS relative to a population without ALS. Differences in protein levels may be assessed using proteomic techniques including but not limited to Western blot, immunohistochemical staining, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and mass spectrometry. Alternatively, the proteins associated with ALS may be identified by obtaining gene expression profiles of the genes encoding the proteins using genomic techniques including but not limited to DNA microarray analysis, serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE), and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR).

By way of non-limiting example, proteins associated with ALS include but are not limited to the following proteins: SOD1 superoxide dismutase 1, ALS3 amyotrophic lateral soluble sclerosis 3 SETX senataxin ALS5 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis 5 FUS fused in sarcoma ALS7 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis 7 ALS2 amyotrophic lateral DPP6 Dipeptidyl-peptidase 6 sclerosis 2 NEFH neurofilament, heavy PTGS1 prostaglandin-polypeptide endoperoxide synthase 1 SLC1A2 solute carrier family 1 TNFRSF10B tumor necrosis factor (glial high affinity receptor superfamily, glutamate transporter), member 10b member 2 PRPH peripherin HSP90AA1 heat shock protein 90 kDa alpha (cytosolic), class A member 1 GRIA2 glutamate receptor, IFNG interferon, gamma ionotropic, AMPA 2 S100B S100 calcium binding FGF2 fibroblast growth factor 2 protein B AOX1 aldehyde oxidase 1 CS citrate synthase TARDBP TAR DNA binding protein TXN thioredoxin RAPH1 Ras association MAP3K5 mitogen-activated protein (RaIGDS/AF-6) and kinase 5 pleckstrin homology domains 1 NBEAL1 neurobeachin-like 1 GPX1 glutathione peroxidase 1 ICA1L islet cell autoantigen RAC1 ras-related C3 botulinum 1.69 kDa-like toxin substrate 1 MAPT microtubule-associated ITPR2 inositol 1,4,5-protein tau triphosphate receptor, type 2 ALS2CR4 amyotrophic lateral GLS glutaminase sclerosis 2 (juvenile) chromosome region, candidate 4 ALS2CR8 amyotrophic lateral CNTFR ciliary neurotrophic factor sclerosis 2 (juvenile) receptor chromosome region, candidate 8 ALS2CR11 amyotrophic lateral FOLH1 folate hydrolase 1 sclerosis 2 (juvenile) chromosome region, candidate 11 FAM117B family with sequence P4HB prolyl 4-hydroxylase, similarity 117, member B beta polypeptide CNTF ciliary neurotrophic factor SQSTM1 sequestosome 1 STRADB STE20-related kinase NAIP NLR family, apoptosis adaptor beta inhibitory protein YWHAQ tyrosine 3-SLC33A1 solute carrier family 33 monooxygenase/tryptoph (acetyl-CoA transporter), an 5-monooxygenase member 1 activation protein, theta polypeptide TRAK2 trafficking protein, FIG. 4 FIG. 4 homolog, SAC1 kinesin binding 2 lipid phosphatase domain containing NIF3L1 NIF3 NGG1 interacting INA internexin neuronal factor 3-like 1 intermediate filament protein, alpha PARD3B par-3 partitioning COX8A cytochrome c oxidase defective 3 homolog B subunit VIIIA CDK15 cyclin-dependent kinase HECW1 HECT, C2 and WW 15 domain containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 NOS1 nitric oxide synthase 1 MET met proto-oncogene SOD2 superoxide dismutase 2, HSPB1 heat shock 27 kDa mitochondrial protein 1 NEFL neurofilament, light CTSB cathepsin B polypeptide ANG angiogenin, HSPA8 heat shock 70 kDa ribonuclease, RNase A protein 8 family, 5 VAPB VAMP (vesicle-ESR1 estrogen receptor 1 associated membrane protein)-associated protein B and C SNCA synuclein, alpha HGF hepatocyte growth factor CAT catalase ACTB actin, beta NEFM neurofilament, medium TH tyrosine hydroxylase polypeptide BCL2 B-cell CLL/lymphoma 2 FAS Fas (TNF receptor superfamily, member 6) CASP3 caspase 3, apoptosis-CLU clusterin related cysteine peptidase SMN1 survival of motor neuron G6PD glucose-6-phosphate 1, telomeric dehydrogenase BAX BCL2-associated X HSF1 heat shock transcription protein factor 1 RNF19A ring finger protein 19A JUN jun oncogene ALS2CR12 amyotrophic lateral HSPA5 heat shock 70 kDa sclerosis 2 (juvenile) protein 5 chromosome region, candidate 12 MAPK14 mitogen-activated protein IL10 interleukin 10 kinase 14 APEX1 APEX nuclease TXNRD1 thioredoxin reductase 1 (multifunctional DNA repair enzyme) 1 NOS2 nitric oxide synthase 2, TIMP1 TIMP metallopeptidase inducible inhibitor 1 CASP9 caspase 9, apoptosis-XIAP X-linked inhibitor of related cysteine apoptosis peptidase GLG1 golgi glycoprotein 1 EPO erythropoietin VEGFA vascular endothelial ELN elastin growth factor A GDNF glial cell derived NFE2L2 nuclear factor (erythroid-neurotrophic factor derived 2)-like 2 SLC6A3 solute carrier family 6 HSPA4 heat shock 70 kDa (neurotransmitter protein 4 transporter, dopamine), member 3 APOE apolipoprotein E PSMB8 proteasome (prosome, macropain) subunit, beta type, 8 DCTN1 dynactin 1 TIMP3 TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 3 KIFAP3 kinesin-associated SLC1A1 solute carrier family 1 protein 3 (neuronal/epithelial high affinity glutamate transporter, system Xag), member 1 SMN2 survival of motor neuron CCNC cyclin C 2, centromeric MPP4 membrane protein, STUB1 STIP1 homology and U-palmitoylated 4 box containing protein 1 ALS2 amyloid beta (A4) PRDX6 peroxiredoxin 6 precursor protein SYP synaptophysin CABIN1 calcineurin binding protein 1 CASP1 caspase 1, apoptosis-GART phosphoribosylglycinami related cysteine de formyltransferase, peptidase phosphoribosylglycinami de synthetase, phosphoribosylaminoimi dazole synthetase CDK5 cyclin-dependent kinase 5 ATXN3 ataxin 3 RTN4 reticulon 4 C1QB complement component 1, q subcomponent, B chain VEGFC nerve growth factor HTT huntingtin receptor PARK7 Parkinson disease 7 XDH xanthine dehydrogenase GFAP glial fibrillary acidic MAP2 microtubule-associated protein protein 2 CYCS cytochrome c, somatic FCGR3B Fc fragment of IgG, low affinity IIIb, CCS copper chaperone for UBLS ubiquitin-like 5 superoxide dismutase MMP9 matrix metallopeptidase SLC18A3 solute carrier family 18 9 ((vesicular acetylcholine), member 3 TRPM7 transient receptor HSPB2 heat shock 27 kDa potential cation channel, protein 2 subfamily M, member 7 AKT1 v-akt murine thymoma DERL1 Der1-like domain family, viral oncogene homolog 1 member 1 CCL2 chemokine (C-C motif) NGRN neugrin, neurite ligand 2 outgrowth associated GSR glutathione reductase TPPP3 tubulin polymerization-promoting protein family member 3 APAF1 apoptotic peptidase BTBD10 BTB (POZ) domain activating factor 1 containing 10 GLUD1 glutamate CXCR4 chemokine (C-X-C motif) dehydrogenase 1 receptor 4 SLC1A3 solute carrier family 1 FLT1 fms-related tyrosine (glial high affinity glutamate transporter), member 3 kinase 1 PON1 paraoxonase 1 AR androgen receptor LIF leukemia inhibitory factor ERBB3 v-erb-b2 erythroblastic leukemia viral oncogene homolog 3 LGALS1 lectin, galactoside-CD44 CD44 molecule binding, soluble, 1 TP53 tumor protein p53 TLR3 toll-like receptor 3 GRIA1 glutamate receptor, GAPDH glyceraldehyde-3-ionotropic, AMPA 1 phosphate dehydrogenase GRIK1 glutamate receptor, DES desmin ionotropic, kainate 1 CHAT choline acetyltransferase FLT4 fms-related tyrosine kinase 4 CHMP2B chromatin modifying BAG1 BCL2-associated protein 2B athanogene MT3 metallothionein 3 CHRNA4 cholinergic receptor, nicotinic, alpha 4 GSS glutathione synthetase BAK1 BCL2-antagonist/killer 1 KDR kinase insert domain GSTP1 glutathione S-transferase receptor (a type III pi 1 receptor tyrosine kinase) OGG1 8-oxoguanine DNA IL6 interleukin 6 (interferon, glycosylase beta 2).

The animal or cell may comprise 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more disrupted chromosomal sequences encoding a protein associated with ALS and zero, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more chromosomally integrated sequences encoding the disrupted protein associated with ALS. Preferred proteins associated with ALS include SOD1 (superoxide dismutase 1), ALS2 (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis 2), FUS (fused in sarcoma), TARDBP (TAR DNA binding protein), VAGFA (vascular endothelial growth factor A), VAGFB (vascular endothelial growth factor B), and VAGFC (vascular endothelial growth factor C), and any combination thereof.

Autism

US Patent Publication No. 20110023145, describes use of zinc finger nucleases to genetically modify cells, animals and proteins associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of disorders characterized by qualitative impairment in social interaction and communication, and restricted repetitive and stereotyped patterns of behavior, interests, and activities. The three disorders, autism, Asperger syndrome (AS) and pervasive developmental disorder—not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) are a continuum of the same disorder with varying degrees of severity, associated intellectual functioning and medical conditions. ASDs are predominantly genetically determined disorders with a heritability of around 90%.

US Patent Publication No. 20110023145 comprises editing of any chromosomal sequences that encode proteins associated with ASD which may be applied to the CRISPR Cas system of the present invention. The proteins associated with ASD are typically selected based on an experimental association of the protein associated with ASD to an incidence or indication of an ASD. For example, the production rate or circulating concentration of a protein associated with ASD may be elevated or depressed in a population having an ASD relative to a population lacking the ASD. Differences in protein levels may be assessed using proteomic techniques including but not limited to Western blot, immunohistochemical staining, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and mass spectrometry. Alternatively, the proteins associated with ASD may be identified by obtaining gene expression profiles of the genes encoding the proteins using genomic techniques including but not limited to DNA microarray analysis, serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE), and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR).

Non limiting examples of disease states or disorders that may be associated with proteins associated with ASD include autism, Asperger syndrome (AS), pervasive developmental disorder—not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), Rett's syndrome, tuberous sclerosis, phenylketonuria, Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome and fragile X syndrome. By way of non-limiting example, proteins associated with ASD include but are not limited to the following proteins: ATP10C aminophospholipid-MET MET receptor transporting ATPase tyrosine kinase (ATP10C) BZRAP1 MGLUR5 (GRM5) Metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (MGLUR5) CDH10 Cadherin-10 MGLUR6 (GRM6) Metabotropic glutamate receptor 6 (MGLUR6) CDH9 Cadherin-9 NLGN1 Neuroligin-1 CNTN4 Contactin-4 NLGN2 Neuroligin-2 CNTNAP2 Contactin-associated SEMASA Neuroligin-3 protein-like 2 (CNTNAP2) DHCR7 7-dehydrocholesterol NLGN4X Neuroligin-4 X-reductase (DHCR7) linked DOC2A Double C2-like domain-NLGN4Y Neuroligin-4 Y-containing protein alpha linked DPP6 Dipeptidyl NLGN5 Neuroligin-5 aminopeptidase-like protein 6 EN2 engrailed 2 (EN2) NRCAM Neuronal cell adhesion molecule (NRCAM) MDGA2 fragile X mental retardation NRXN1 Neurexin-1 1 (MDGA2) FMR2 (AFF2) AF4/FMR2 family member 2 OR4M2 Olfactory receptor (AFF2) 4M2 FOXP2 Forkhead box protein P2 OR4N4 Olfactory receptor (FOXP2) 4N4 FXR1 Fragile X mental OXTR oxytocin receptor retardation, autosomal (OXTR) homolog 1 (FXR1) FXR2 Fragile X mental PAH phenylalanine retardation, autosomal hydroxylase (PAH) homolog 2 (FXR2) GABRA1 Gamma-aminobutyric acid PTEN Phosphatase and receptor subunit alpha-1 tensin homologue (GABRA1) (PTEN) GABRA5 GABAA (.gamma.-aminobutyric PTPRZ1 Receptor-type acid) receptor alpha 5 tyrosine-protein subunit (GABRA5) phosphatase zeta (PTPRZ1) GABRB1 Gamma-aminobutyric acid RELN Reelin receptor subunit beta-1 (GABRB1) GABRB3 GABAA (.gamma.-aminobutyric RPL10 60S ribosomal acid) receptor .beta.3 subunit protein L10 (GABRB3) GABRG1 Gamma-aminobutyric acid SEMA5A Semaphorin-5A receptor subunit gamma-1 (SEMA5A) (GABRG1) HIRIP3 HIRA-interacting protein 3 SEZ6L2 seizure related 6 homolog (mouse)-like 2 HOXA1 Homeobox protein Hox-A1 SHANK3 SH3 and multiple (HOXA1) ankyrin repeat domains 3 (SHANK3) IL6 Interleukin-6 SHBZRAP1 SH3 and multiple ankyrin repeat domains 3 (SHBZRAP1) LAMB1 Laminin subunit beta-1 SLC6A4 Serotonin (LAMB1) transporter (SERT) MAPK3 Mitogen-activated protein TAS2R1 Taste receptor kinase 3 type 2 member 1 TAS2R1 MAZ Myc-associated zinc finger TSC1 Tuberous sclerosis protein protein 1 MDGA2 MAM domain containing TSC2 Tuberous sclerosis glycosylphosphatidylinositol protein 2 anchor 2 (MDGA2) MECP2 Methyl CpG binding UBE3A Ubiquitin protein protein 2 (MECP2) ligase E3A (UBE3A) MECP2 methyl CpG binding WNT2 Wingless-type protein 2 (MECP2) MMTV integration site family, member 2 (WNT2)

The identity of the protein associated with ASD whose chromosomal sequence is edited can and will vary. In preferred embodiments, the proteins associated with ASD whose chromosomal sequence is edited may be the benzodiazapine receptor (peripheral) associated protein 1 (BZRAP1) encoded by the BZRAP1 gene, the AF4/FMR2 family member 2 protein (AFF2) encoded by the AFF2 gene (also termed MFR2), the fragile X mental retardation autosomal homolog 1 protein (FXR1) encoded by the FXR1 gene, the fragile X mental retardation autosomal homolog 2 protein (FXR2) encoded by the FXR2 gene, the MAM domain containing glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor 2 protein (MDGA2) encoded by the MDGA2 gene, the methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) encoded by the MECP2 gene, the metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (MGLUR5) encoded by the MGLUR5-1 gene (also termed GRM5), the neurexin 1 protein encoded by the NRXN1 gene, or the semaphorin-5A protein (SEMA5A) encoded by the SEMA5A gene. In an exemplary embodiment, the genetically modified animal is a rat, and the edited chromosomal sequence encoding the protein associated with ASD is as listed below: BZRAP1 benzodiazapine receptor XM_002727789, (peripheral) associated XM_213427, protein 1 (BZRAP1) XM_002724533, XM_001081125 AFF2 (FMR2) AF4/FMR2 family member 2 XM_219832, (AFF2) XM_001054673 FXR1 Fragile X mental NM_001012179 retardation, autosomal homolog 1 (FXR1) FXR2 Fragile X mental NM_001100647 retardation, autosomal homolog 2 (FXR2) MDGA2 MAM domain containing NM_199269 glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor 2 (MDGA2) MECP2 Methyl CpG binding NM_022673 protein 2 (MECP2) MGLUR5 Metabotropic glutamate NM_017012 (GRM5) receptor 5 (MGLUR5) NRXN1 Neurexin-1 NM_021767 SEMA5A Semaphorin-5A (SEMA5A) NM_001107659.

Trinucleotide Repeat Expansion Disorders (TRE)

US Patent Publication No. 20110016540, describes use of zinc finger nucleases to genetically modify cells, animals and proteins associated with trinucleotide repeat expansion disorders. Trinucleotide repeat expansion disorders are complex, progressive disorders that involve developmental neurobiology and often affect cognition as well as sensori-motor functions.

Trinucleotide repeat expansion proteins are a diverse set of proteins associated with susceptibility for developing a trinucleotide repeat expansion disorder, the presence of a trinucleotide repeat expansion disorder, the severity of a trinucleotide repeat expansion disorder or any combination thereof. Trinucleotide repeat expansion disorders are divided into two categories determined by the type of repeat. The most common repeat is the triplet CAG, which, when present in the coding region of a gene, codes for the amino acid glutamine (Q). Therefore, these disorders are referred to as the polyglutamine (polyQ) disorders and comprise the following diseases: Huntington Disease (HD); Spinobulbar Muscular Atrophy (SBMA); Spinocerebellar Ataxias (SCA types 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, and 17); and Dentatorubro-Pallidoluysian Atrophy (DRPLA). The remaining trinucleotide repeat expansion disorders either do not involve the CAG triplet or the CAG triplet is not in the coding region of the gene and are, therefore, referred to as the non-polyglutamine disorders. The non-polyglutamine disorders comprise Fragile X Syndrome (FRAXA); Fragile XE Mental Retardation (FRAXE); Friedreich Ataxia (FRDA); Myotonic Dystrophy (DM); and Spinocerebellar Ataxias (SCA types 8, and 12).

The proteins associated with trinucleotide repeat expansion disorders are typically selected based on an experimental association of the protein associated with a trinucleotide repeat expansion disorder to a trinucleotide repeat expansion disorder. For example, the production rate or circulating concentration of a protein associated with a trinucleotide repeat expansion disorder may be elevated or depressed in a population having a trinucleotide repeat expansion disorder relative to a population lacking the trinucleotide repeat expansion disorder. Differences in protein levels may be assessed using proteomic techniques including but not limited to Western blot, immunohistochemical staining, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and mass spectrometry. Alternatively, the proteins associated with trinucleotide repeat expansion disorders may be identified by obtaining gene expression profiles of the genes encoding the proteins using genomic techniques including but not limited to DNA microarray analysis, serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE), and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR).

Non-limiting examples of proteins associated with trinucleotide repeat expansion disorders include AR (androgen receptor), FMR1 (fragile X mental retardation 1), HTT (huntingtin), DMPK (dystrophia myotonica-protein kinase), FXN (frataxin), ATXN2 (ataxin 2), ATN1 (atrophin 1), FEN1 (flap structure-specific endonuclease 1), TNRC6A (trinucleotide repeat containing 6A), PABPN1 (poly(A) binding protein, nuclear 1), JPH3 (junctophilin 3), MED15 (mediator complex subunit 15), ATXN1 (ataxin 1), ATXN3 (ataxin 3), TBP (TATA box binding protein), CACNA1A (calcium channel, voltage-dependent, P/Q type, alpha 1A subunit), ATXN80S (ATXN8 opposite strand (non-protein coding)), PPP2R2B (protein phosphatase 2, regulatory subunit B, beta), ATXN7 (ataxin 7), TNRC6B (trinucleotide repeat containing 6B), TNRC6C (trinucleotide repeat containing 6C), CELF3 (CUGBP, Elav-like family member 3), MAB21L1 (mab-21-like 1 (C. elegans)), MSH2 (mutS homolog 2, colon cancer, nonpolyposis type 1 (E. coli)), TMEM185A (transmembrane protein 185A), SIX5 (SIX homeobox 5), CNPY3 (canopy 3 homolog (zebrafish)), FRAXE (fragile site, folic acid type, rare, fra(X)(q28) E), GNB2 (guanine nucleotide binding protein (G protein), beta polypeptide 2), RPL14 (ribosomal protein L14), ATXN8 (ataxin 8), INSR (insulin receptor), TTR (transthyretin), EP400 (E1A binding protein p400), GIGYF2 (GRB10 interacting GYF protein 2), OGG1 (8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase), STC1 (stanniocalcin 1), CNDP1 (carnosine dipeptidase 1 (metallopeptidase M20 family)), C10orf2 (chromosome 10 open reading frame 2), MAML3 mastermind-like 3 (Drosophila), DKC1 (dyskeratosis congenita 1, dyskerin), PAXIP1 (PAX interacting (with transcription-activation domain) protein 1), CASK (calcium/calmodulin-dependent serine protein kinase (MAGUK family)), MAPT (microtubule-associated protein tau), SP1 (Sp1 transcription factor), POLG (polymerase (DNA directed), gamma), AFF2 (AF4/FMR2 family, member 2), THBS1 (thrombospondin 1), TP53 (tumor protein p53), ESR1 (estrogen receptor 1), CGGBP1 (CGG triplet repeat binding protein 1), ABT1 (activator of basal transcription 1), KLK3 (kallikrein-related peptidase 3), PRNP (prion protein), JUN (jun oncogene), KCNN3 (potassium intermediate/small conductance calcium-activated channel, subfamily N, member 3), BAX (BCL2-associated X protein), FRAXA (fragile site, folic acid type, rare, fra(X)(q27.3) A (macroorchidism, mental retardation)), KBTBD10 (kelch repeat and BTB (POZ) domain containing 10), MBNL1 (muscleblind-like (Drosophila)), RAD51 (RAD51 homolog (RecA homolog, E. coli) (S. cerevisiae)), NCOA3 (nuclear receptor coactivator 3), ERDA1 (expanded repeat domain, CAG/CTG 1), TSC1 (tuberous sclerosis 1), COMP (cartilage oligomeric matrix protein), GCLC (glutamate-cysteine ligase, catalytic subunit), RRAD (Ras-related associated with diabetes), MSH3 (mutS homolog 3 (E. coli)), DRD2 (dopamine receptor D2), CD44 (CD44 molecule (Indian blood group)), CTCF (CCCTC-binding factor (zinc finger protein)), CCND1 (cyclin D1), CLSPN (claspin homolog (Xenopus laevis)), MEF2A (myocyte enhancer factor 2A), PTPRU (protein tyrosine phosphatase, receptor type, U), GAPDH (glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase), TRIM22 (tripartite motif-containing 22), WT1 (Wilms tumor 1), AHR (aryl hydrocarbon receptor), GPX1 (glutathione peroxidase 1), TPMT (thiopurine S-methyltransferase), NDP (Norrie disease (pseudoglioma)), ARX (aristaless related homeobox), MUS81 (MUS81 endonuclease homolog (S. cerevisiae)), TYR (tyrosinase (oculocutaneous albinism IA)), EGR1 (early growth response 1), UNG (uracil-DNA glycosylase), NUMBL (numb homolog (Drosophila)-like), FABP2 (fatty acid binding protein 2, intestinal), EN2 (engrailed homeobox 2), CRYGC (crystallin, gamma C), SRP14 (signal recognition particle 14 kDa (homologous Alu RNA binding protein)), CRYGB (crystallin, gamma B), PDCD1 (programmed cell death 1), HOXA1 (homeobox A1), ATXN2L (ataxin 2-like), PMS2 (PMS2 postmeiotic segregation increased 2 (S. cerevisiae)), GLA (galactosidase, alpha), CBL (Cas-Br-M (murine) ecotropic retroviral transforming sequence), FTH1 (ferritin, heavy polypeptide 1), IL12RB2 (interleukin 12 receptor, beta 2), OTX2 (orthodenticle homeobox 2), HOXAS (homeobox A5), POLG2 (polymerase (DNA directed), gamma 2, accessory subunit), DLX2 (distal-less homeobox 2), SIRPA (signal-regulatory protein alpha), OTX1 (orthodenticle homeobox 1), AHRR (aryl-hydrocarbon receptor repressor), MANF (mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor), TMEM158 (transmembrane protein 158 (gene/pseudogene)), and ENSG00000078687.

Preferred proteins associated with trinucleotide repeat expansion disorders include HTT (Huntingtin), AR (androgen receptor), FXN (frataxin), Atxn3 (ataxin), Atxn1 (ataxin), Atxn2 (ataxin), Atxn7 (ataxin), Atxn10 (ataxin), DMPK (dystrophia myotonica-protein kinase), Atn1 (atrophin 1), CBP (creb binding protein), VLDLR (very low density lipoprotein receptor), and any combination thereof.

Alzheimer's Disease

US Patent Publication No. 20110023153, describes use of zinc finger nucleases to genetically modify cells, animals and proteins associated with Alzheimer's Disease. Once modified cells and animals may be further tested using known methods to study the effects of the targeted mutations on the development and/or progression of AD using measures commonly used in the study of AD—such as, without limitation, learning and memory, anxiety, depression, addiction, and sensory motor functions as well as assays that measure behavioral, functional, pathological, metabolic and biochemical function.

The present disclosure comprises editing of any chromosomal sequences that encode proteins associated with AD. The AD-related proteins are typically selected based on an experimental association of the AD-related protein to an AD disorder. For example, the production rate or circulating concentration of an AD-related protein may be elevated or depressed in a population having an AD disorder relative to a population lacking the AD disorder. Differences in protein levels may be assessed using proteomic techniques including but not limited to Western blot, immunohistochemical staining, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and mass spectrometry. Alternatively, the AD-related proteins may be identified by obtaining gene expression profiles of the genes encoding the proteins using genomic techniques including but not limited to DNA microarray analysis, serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE), and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR).

Examples of Alzheimer's disease associated proteins may include the very low density lipoprotein receptor protein (VLDLR) encoded by the VLDLR gene, the ubiquitin-like modifier activating enzyme 1 (UBA1) encoded by the UBA1 gene, or the NEDD8-activating enzyme E1 catalytic subunit protein (UBE1C) encoded by the UBA3 gene, for example.

By way of non-limiting example, proteins associated with AD include but are not limited to the proteins listed as follows: Chromosomal Sequence Encoded Protein ALAS2 Delta-aminolevulinate synthase 2 (ALAS2) ABCA1 ATP-binding cassette transporter (ABCA1) ACE Angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) APOE Apolipoprotein E precursor (APOE) APP amyloid precursor protein (APP) AQP1 aquaporin 1 protein (AQP1) BIN1 Myc box-dependent-interacting protein 1 or bridging integrator 1 protein (BIN1) BDNF brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) BTNL8 Butyrophilin-like protein 8 (BTNL8) C1ORF49 chromosome 1 open reading frame 49 CDH4 Cadherin-4 CHRNB2 Neuronal acetylcholine receptor subunit beta-2 CKLFSF2 CKLF-like MARVEL transmembrane domain-containing protein 2 (CKLFSF2) CLEC4E C-type lectin domain family 4, member e (CLEC4E) CLU clusterin protein (also known as apoplipoprotein J) CR1 Erythrocyte complement receptor 1 (CR1, also known as CD35, C3b/C4b receptor and immune adherence receptor) CR1L Erythrocyte complement receptor 1 (CR1L) CSF3R granulocyte colony-stimulating factor 3 receptor (CSF3R) CST3 Cystatin C or cystatin 3 CYP2C Cytochrome P450 2C DAPK1 Death-associated protein kinase 1 (DAPK1) ESR1 Estrogen receptor 1 FCAR Fc fragment of IgA receptor (FCAR, also known as CD89) FCGR3B Fc fragment of IgG, low affinity IIIb, receptor (FCGR3B or CD16b) FFA2 Free fatty acid receptor 2 (FFA2) FGA Fibrinogen (Factor I) GAB2 GRB2-associated-binding protein 2 (GAB2) GAB2 GRB2-associated-binding protein 2 (GAB2) GALP Galanin-like peptide GAPDHS Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, spermatogenic (GAPDHS) GMPB GMBP HP Haptoglobin (HP) HTR7 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) receptor 7 (adenylate cyclase-coupled) IDE Insulin degrading enzyme IF127 IF127 IFI6 Interferon, alpha-inducible protein 6 (IFI6) IFIT2 Interferon-induced protein with tetratricopeptide repeats 2 (IFIT2) IL1RN interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) IL8RA Interleukin 8 receptor, alpha (IL8RA or CD181) IL8RB Interleukin 8 receptor, beta (IL8RB) JAG1 Jagged 1 (JAG1) KCNJ15 Potassium inwardly-rectifying channel, subfamily J, member 15 (KCNJ15) LRP6 Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 (LRP6) MAPT microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT) MARK4 MAP/microtubule affinity-regulating kinase 4 (MARK4) MPHOSPH1 M-phase phosphoprotein 1 MTHFR 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase MX2 Interferon-induced GTP-binding protein Mx2 NBN Nibrin, also known as NBN NCSTN Nicastrin NIACR2 Niacin receptor 2 (NIACR2, also known as GPR109B) NMNAT3 nicotinamide nucleotide adenylyltransferase 3 NTM Neurotrimin (or HNT) ORM1 Orosmucoid 1 (ORM1) or Alpha-1-acid glycoprotein 1 P2RY13 P2Y purinoceptor 13 (P2RY13) PBEF1 Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAmPRTase or Nampt) also known as pre-B-cell colony-enhancing factor 1 (PBEF1) or visfatin PCK1 Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase PICALM phosphatidylinositol binding clathrin assembly protein (PICALM) PLAU Urokinase-type plasminogen activator (PLAU) PLXNC1 Plexin C1 (PLXNC1) PRNP Prion protein PSEN1 presenilin 1 protein (PSEN1) PSEN2 presenilin 2 protein (PSEN2) PTPRA protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type A protein (PTPRA) RALGPS2 Ral GEF with PH domain and SH3 binding motif 2 (RALGPS2) RGSL2 regulator of G-protein signaling like 2 (RGSL2) SELENBP1 Selenium binding protein 1 (SELNBP1) SLC25A37 Mitoferrin-1 SORL1 sortilin-related receptor L (DLR class) A repeats-containing protein (SORL1) TF Transferrin TFAM Mitochondrial transcription factor A TNF Tumor necrosis factor TNFRSF10C Tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 10C (TNFRSF10C) TNFSF10 Tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, (TRAIL) member 10a (TNFSF10) UBA1 ubiquitin-like modifier activating enzyme 1 (UBA1) UBA3 NEDD8-activating enzyme E1 catalytic subunit protein (UBE1C) UBB ubiquitin B protein (UBB) UBQLN1 Ubiquilin-1 UCHL1 ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal esterase L1 protein (UCHL1) UCHL3 ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase isozyme L3 protein (UCHL3) VLDLR very low density lipoprotein receptor protein (VLDLR)

In exemplary embodiments, the proteins associated with AD whose chromosomal sequence is edited may be the very low density lipoprotein receptor protein (VLDLR) encoded by the VLDLR gene, the ubiquitin-like modifier activating enzyme 1 (UBA1) encoded by the UBA1 gene, the NEDD8-activating enzyme E1 catalytic subunit protein (UBE1C) encoded by the UBA3 gene, the aquaporin 1 protein (AQP1) encoded by the AQP1 gene, the ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal esterase L1 protein (UCHL1) encoded by the UCHL1 gene, the ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase isozyme L3 protein (UCHL3) encoded by the UCHL3 gene, the ubiquitin B protein (UBB) encoded by the UBB gene, the microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT) encoded by the MAPT gene, the protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type A protein (PTPRA) encoded by the PTPRA gene, the phosphatidylinositol binding clathrin assembly protein (PICALM) encoded by the PICALM gene, the clusterin protein (also known as apoplipoprotein J) encoded by the CLU gene, the presenilin 1 protein encoded by the PSEN1 gene, the presenilin 2 protein encoded by the PSEN2 gene, the sortilin-related receptor L(DLR class) A repeats-containing protein (SORL1) protein encoded by the SORL1 gene, the amyloid precursor protein (APP) encoded by the APP gene, the Apolipoprotein E precursor (APOE) encoded by the APOE gene, or the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) encoded by the BDNF gene. In an exemplary embodiment, the genetically modified animal is a rat, and the edited chromosomal sequence encoding the protein associated with AD is as follows: APP amyloid precursor protein (APP) NM_019288 AQP1 aquaporin 1 protein (AQP1) NM_012778 BDNF Brain-derived neurotrophic factor NM_012513 CLU clusterin protein (also known as NM_053021 apoplipoprotein J) MAPT microtubule-associated protein NM_017212 tau (MAPT) PICALM phosphatidylinositol binding NM_053554 clathrin assembly protein (PICALM) PSEN1 presenilin 1 protein (PSEN1) NM_019163 PSEN2 presenilin 2 protein (PSEN2) NM_031087 PTPRA protein tyrosine phosphatase NM_012763 receptor type A protein (PTPRA) SORL1 sortilin-related receptor L(DLR NM_053519, class) A repeats-containing XM_001065506, protein (SORL1) XM_217115 UBA1 ubiquitin-like modifier activating NM_001014080 enzyme 1 (UBA1) UBA3 NEDD8-activating enzyme E1 NM_057205 catalytic subunit protein (UBE1C) UBB ubiquitin B protein (UBB) NM_138895 UCHL1 ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal NM_017237 esterase L1 protein (UCHL1) UCHL3 ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal NM_001110165 hydrolase isozyme L3 protein (UCHL3) VLDLR very low density lipoprotein NM_013155 receptor protein (VLDLR)

The animal or cell may comprise 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 or more disrupted chromosomal sequences encoding a protein associated with AD and zero, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 or more chromosomally integrated sequences encoding a protein associated with AD.

The edited or integrated chromosomal sequence may be modified to encode an altered protein associated with AD. A number of mutations in AD-related chromosomal sequences have been associated with AD. For instance, the V7171 (i.e. valine at position 717 is changed to isoleucine) missense mutation in APP causes familial AD. Multiple mutations in the presenilin-1 protein, such as H163R (i.e. histidine at position 163 is changed to arginine), A246E (i.e. alanine at position 246 is changed to glutamate), L286V (i.e. leucine at position 286 is changed to valine) and C410Y (i.e. cysteine at position 410 is changed to tyrosine) cause familial Alzheimer's type 3. Mutations in the presenilin-2 protein, such as N141 I (i.e. asparagine at position 141 is changed to isoleucine), M239V (i.e. methionine at position 239 is changed to valine), and D439A (i.e. aspartate at position 439 is changed to alanine) cause familial Alzheimer's type 4. Other associations of genetic variants in AD-associated genes and disease are known in the art. See, for example, Waring et al. (2008) Arch. Neurol. 65:329-334, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

Examples of Disease-Related Genes

Examples of disease-associated genes and polynucleotides are listed in Tables A and B. Examples of signaling biochemical pathway-associated genes and polynucleotides are listed in Table C.

TABLE A DISEASE/DISORDERS GENE(S) Neoplasia PTEN; ATM; ATR; EGFR; ERBB2; ERBB3; ERBB4; Notch1; Notch2; Notch3; Notch4; AKT; AKT2; AKT3; HIF; HIF1a; HIF3a; Met; HRG; Bcl2; PPAR alpha; PPAR gamma; WT1 (Wilms Tumor); FGF Receptor Family members (5 members: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5); CDKN2a; APC; RB (retinoblastoma); MEN1; VHL; BRCA1; BRCA2; AR (Androgen Receptor); TSG101; IGF; IGF Receptor; Igf1 (4 variants); Igf2 (3 variants); Igf 1 Receptor; Igf 2 Receptor; Bax; Bcl2; caspases family (9 members: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12); Kras; Apc Age-related Macular Aber; Ccl2; Cc2; cp (ceruloplasmin); Timp3; cathepsinD; Degeneration Vldlr; Ccr2 Schizophrenia Neuregulin1 (Nrg1); Erb4 (receptor for Neuregulin); Complexin1 (Cplx1); Tph1 Tryptophan hydroxylase; Tph2 Tryptophan hydroxylase 2; Neurexin 1; GSK3; GSK3a; GSK3b Disorders 5-HTT (Slc6a4); COMT; DRD (Drd1a); SLC6A3; DAOA; DTNBP1; Dao (Dao1) Trinucleotide Repeat HTT (Huntington's Dx); SBMA/SMAX1/AR (Kennedy's Disorders Dx); FXN/X25 (Friedrich's Ataxia); ATX3 (Machado- Joseph's Dx); ATXN1 and ATXN2 (spinocerebellar ataxias); DMPK (myotonic dystrophy); Atrophin-1 and Atn1 (DRPLA Dx); CBP (Creb-BP—global instability); VLDLR (Alzheimer's); Atxn7; Atxn10 Fragile X Syndrome FMR2; FXR1; FXR2; mGLUR5 Secretase Related APH-1 (alpha and beta); Presenilin (Psen1); nicastrin Disorders (Ncstn); PEN-2 Others Nos1; Parp1; Nat1; Nat2 Prion—related disorders Prp ALS SOD1; ALS2; STEX; FUS; TARDBP; VEGF (VEGF-a; VEGF-b; VEGF-c) Drug addiction Prkce (alcohol); Drd2; Drd4; ABAT (alcohol); GRIA2; Grm5; Grin1; Htr1b; Grin2a; Drd3; Pdyn; Gria1 (alcohol) Autism Mecp2; BZRAP1; MDGA2; Sema5A; Neurexin 1; Fragile X (FMR2 (AFF2); FXR1; FXR2; Mglur5) Alzheimer's Disease E1; CHIP; UCH; UBB; Tau; LRP; PICALM; Clusterin; PS1; SORL1; CR1; Vldlr; Uba1; Uba3; CHIP28 (Aqp1, Aquaporin 1); Uchl1; Uchl3; APP Inflammation IL-10; IL-1 (IL-1a; IL-1b); IL-13; IL-17 (IL-17a (CTLA8); IL- 17b; IL-17c; IL-17d; IL-17f); II-23; Cx3cr1; ptpn22; TNFa; NOD2/CARD15 for IBD; IL-6; IL-12 (IL-12a; IL-12b); CTLA4; Cx3cl1 Parkinson's Disease x-Synuclein; DJ-1; LRRK2; Parkin; PINK1

TABLE B Blood and Anemia (CDAN1, CDA1, RPS19, DBA, PKLR, PK1, NT5C3, UMPH1, coagulation diseases PSN1, RHAG, RH50A, NRAMP2, SPTB, ALAS2, ANH1, ASB, and disorders ABCB7, ABC7, ASAT); Bare lymphocyte syndrome (TAPBP, TPSN, TAP2, ABCB3, PSF2, RING11, MHC2TA, C2TA, RFX5, RFXAP, RFX5), Bleeding disorders (TBXA2R, P2RX1, P2X1); Factor H and factor H-like 1 (HF1, CFH, HUS); Factor V and factor VIII (MCFD2); Factor VII deficiency (F7); Factor X deficiency (F10); Factor XI deficiency (F11); Factor XII deficiency (F12, HAF); Factor XIIIA deficiency (F13A1, F13A); Factor XIIIB deficiency (F13B); Fanconi anemia (FANCA, FACA, FA1, FA, FAA, FAAP95, FAAP90, FLJ34064, FANCB, FANCC, FACC, BRCA2, FANCD1, FANCD2, FANCD, FACD, FAD, FANCE, FACE, FANCF, XRCC9, FANCG, BRIP1, BACH1, FANCJ, PHF9, FANCL, FANCM, KIAA1596); Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis disorders (PRF1, HPLH2, UNC13D, MUNC13-4, HPLH3, HLH3, FHL3); Hemophilia A (F8, F8C, HEMA); Hemophilia B (F9, HEMB), Hemorrhagic disorders (PI, ATT, F5); Leukocyde deficiencies and disorders (ITGB2, CD18, LCAMB, LAD, EIF2B1, EIF2BA, EIF2B2, EIF2B3, EIF2B5, LVWM, CACH, CLE, EIF2B4); Sickle cell anemia (HBB); Thalassemia (HBA2, HBB, HBD, LCRB, HBA1). Cell dysregulation B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (BCL7A, BCL7); Leukemia (TAL1, and oncology TCL5, SCL, TAL2, FLT3, NBS1, NBS, ZNFN1A1, IK1, LYF1, diseases and disorders HOXD4, HOX4B, BCR, CML, PHL, ALL, ARNT, KRAS2, RASK2, GMPS, AF10, ARHGEF12, LARG, KIAA0382, CALM, CLTH, CEBPA, CEBP, CHIC2, BTL, FLT3, KIT, PBT, LPP, NPM1, NUP214, D9S46E, CAN, CAIN, RUNX1, CBFA2, AML1, WHSC1L1, NSD3, FLT3, AF1Q, NPM1, NUMA1, ZNF145, PLZF, PML, MYL, STAT5B, AF10, CALM, CLTH, ARL11, ARLTS1, P2RX7, P2X7, BCR, CML, PHL, ALL, GRAF, NF1, VRNF, WSS, NFNS, PTPN11, PTP2C, SHP2, NS1, BCL2, CCND1, PRAD1, BCL1, TCRA, GATA1, GF1, ERYF1, NFE1, ABL1, NQO1, DIA4, NMOR1, NUP214, D9S46E, CAN, CAIN). Inflammation and AIDS (KIR3DL1, NKAT3, NKB1, AMB11, KIR3DS1, IFNG, CXCL12, immune related SDF1); Autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (TNFRSF6, APT1, diseases and disorders FAS, CD95, ALPS1A); Combined immunodeficiency, (IL2RG, SCIDX1, SCIDX, IMD4); HIV-1 (CCL5, SCYA5, D17S136E, TCP228), HIV susceptibility or infection (IL10, CSIF, CMKBR2, CCR2, CMKBR5, CCCKR5 (CCR5)); Immunodeficiencies (CD3E, CD3G, AICDA, AID, HIGM2, TNFRSF5, CD40, UNG, DGU, HIGM4, TNFSF5, CD40LG, HIGM1, IGM, FOXP3, IPEX, AIID, XPID, PIDX, TNFRSF14B, TACI); Inflammation (IL-10, IL-1 (IL-1a, IL-1b), IL-13, IL-17 (IL-17a (CTLA8), IL-17b, IL-17c, IL-17d, IL-17f), II-23, Cx3cr1, ptpn22, TNFa, NOD2/CARD15 for IBD, IL-6, IL-12 (IL-12a, IL-12b), CTLA4, Cx3cl1); Severe combined immunodeficiencies (SCIDs)(JAK3, JAKL, DCLRE1C, ARTEMIS, SCIDA, RAG1, RAG2, ADA, PTPRC, CD45, LCA, IL7R, CD3D, T3D, IL2RG, SCIDX1, SCIDX, IMD4). Metabolic, liver, Amyloid neuropathy (TTR, PALB); Amyloidosis (APOA1, APP, AAA, kidney and protein CVAP, AD1, GSN, FGA, LYZ, TTR, PALB); Cirrhosis (KRT18, KRT8, diseases and disorders CIRH1A, NAIC, TEX292, KIAA1988); Cystic fibrosis (CFTR, ABCC7, CF, MRP7); Glycogen storage diseases (SLC2A2, GLUT2, G6PC, G6PT, G6PT1, GAA, LAMP2, LAMPB, AGL, GDE, GBE1, GYS2, PYGL, PFKM); Hepatic adenoma, 142330 (TCF1, HNF1A, MODY3), Hepatic failure, early onset, and neurologic disorder (SCOD1, SCO1), Hepatic lipase deficiency (LIPC), Hepatoblastoma, cancer and carcinomas (CTNNB1, PDGFRL, PDGRL, PRLTS, AXIN1, AXIN, CTNNB1, TP53, P53, LFS1, IGF2R, MPRI, MET, CASP8, MCH5; Medullary cystic kidney disease (UMOD, HNFJ, FJHN, MCKD2, ADMCKD2); Phenylketonuria (PAH, PKU1, QDPR, DHPR, PTS); Polycystic kidney and hepatic disease (FCYT, PKHD1, ARPKD, PKD1, PKD2, PKD4, PKDTS, PRKCSH, G19P1, PCLD, SEC63). Muscular/Skeletal Becker muscular dystrophy (DMD, BMD, MYF6), Duchenne Muscular diseases and disorders Dystrophy (DMD, BMD); Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy (LMNA, LMN1, EMD2, FPLD, CMD1A, HGPS, LGMD1B, LMNA, LMN1, EMD2, FPLD, CMD1A); Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHMD1A, FSHD1A); Muscular dystrophy (FKRP, MDC1C, LGMD2I, LAMA2, LAMM, LARGE, KIAA0609, MDC1D, FCMD, TTID, MYOT, CAPN3, CANP3, DYSF, LGMD2B, SGCG, LGMD2C, DMDA1, SCG3, SGCA, ADL, DAG2, LGMD2D, DMDA2, SGCB, LGMD2E, SGCD, SGD, LGMD2F, CMD1L, TCAP, LGMD2G, CMD1N, TRIM32, HT2A, LGMD2H, FKRP, MDC1C, LGMD2I, TTN, CMD1G, TMD, LGMD2J, POMT1, CAV3, LGMD1C, SEPN1, SELN, RSMD1, PLEC1, PLTN, EBS1); Osteopetrosis (LRP5, BMND1, LRP7, LR3, OPPG, VBCH2, CLCN7, CLC7, OPTA2, OSTM1, GL, TCIRG1, TIRC7, OC116, OPTB1); Muscular atrophy (VAPB, VAPC, ALS8, SMN1, SMA1, SMA2, SMA3, SMA4, BSCL2, SPG17, GARS, SMAD1, CMT2D, HEXB, IGHMBP2, SMUBP2, CATF1, SMARD1). Neurological and ALS (SOD1, ALS2, STEX, FUS, TARDBP, VEGF (VEGF-a, VEGF-b, neuronal diseases and VEGF-c); Alzheimer disease (APP, AAA, CVAP, AD1, APOE, AD2, disorders PSEN2, AD4, STM2, APBB2, FE65L1, NOS3, PLAU, URK, ACE, DCP1, ACE1, MPO, PACIP1, PAXIP1L, PTIP, A2M, BLMH, BMH, PSEN1, AD3); Autism (Mecp2, BZRAP1, MDGA2, Sema5A, Neurexin 1, GLO1, MECP2, RTT, PPMX, MRX16, MRX79, NLGN3, NLGN4, KIAA1260, AUTSX2); Fragile X Syndrome (FMR2, FXR1, FXR2, mGLUR5); Huntington's disease and disease like disorders (HD, IT15, PRNP, PRIP, JPH3, JP3, HDL2, TBP, SCA17); Parkinson disease (NR4A2, NURR1, NOT, TINUR, SNCAIP, TBP, SCA17, SNCA, NACP, PARK1, PARK4, DJ1, PARK7, LRRK2, PARK8, PINK1, PARK6, UCHL1, PARK5, SNCA, NACP, PARK1, PARK4, PRKN, PARK2, PDJ, DBH, NDUFV2); Rett syndrome (MECP2, RTT, PPMX, MRX16, MRX79, CDKL5, STK9, MECP2, RTT, PPMX, MRX16, MRX79, x-Synuclein, DJ-1); Schizophrenia (Neuregulin1 (Nrg1), Erb4 (receptor for Neuregulin), Complexin1 (Cplx1), Tph1 Tryptophan hydroxylase, Tph2, Tryptophan hydroxylase 2, Neurexin 1, GSK3, GSK3a, GSK3b, 5-HTT (Slc6a4), COMT, DRD (Drd1a), SLC6A3, DAOA, DTNBP1, Dao (Dao1)); Secretase Related Disorders (APH-1 (alpha and beta), Presenilin (Psen1), nicastrin, (Ncstn), PEN-2, Nos1, Parp1, Nat1, Nat2); Trinucleotide Repeat Disorders (HTT (Huntington's Dx), SBMA/SMAX1/AR (Kennedy's Dx), FXN/X25 (Friedrich's Ataxia), ATX3 (Machado-Joseph's Dx), ATXN1 and ATXN2 (spinocerebellar ataxias), DMPK (myotonic dystrophy), Atrophin-1 and Atn1 (DRPLA Dx), CBP (Creb-BP—global instability), VLDLR (Alzheimer's), Atxn7, Atxn10). Occular diseases and Age-related macular degeneration (Abcr, Ccl2, Cc2, cp (ceruloplasmin), disorders Timp3, cathepsinD, Vldlr, Ccr2); Cataract (CRYAA, CRYA1, CRYBB2, CRYB2, PITX3, BFSP2, CP49, CP47, CRYAA, CRYA1, PAX6, AN2, MGDA, CRYBA1, CRYB1, CRYGC, CRYG3, CCL, LIM2, MP19, CRYGD, CRYG4, BFSP2, CP49, CP47, HSF4, CTM, HSF4, CTM, MIP, AQP0, CRYAB, CRYA2, CTPP2, CRYBB1, CRYGD, CRYG4, CRYBB2, CRYB2, CRYGC, CRYG3, CCL, CRYAA, CRYA1, GJA8, CX50, CAE1, GJA3, CX46, CZP3, CAE3, CCM1, CAM, KRIT1); Corneal clouding and dystrophy (APOA1, TGFBI, CSD2, CDGG1, CSD, BIGH3, CDG2, TACSTD2, TROP2, M1S1, VSX1, RINX, PPCD, PPD, KTCN, COL8A2, FECD, PPCD2, PIP5K3, CFD); Cornea plana congenital (KERA, CNA2); Glaucoma (MYOC, TIGR, GLC1A, JOAG, GPOA, OPTN, GLC1E, FIP2, HYPL, NRP, CYP1B1, GLC3A, OPA1, NTG, NPG, CYP1B1, GLC3A); Leber congenital amaurosis (CRB1, RP12, CRX, CORD2, CRD, RPGRIP1, LCA6, CORD9, RPE65, RP20, AIPL1, LCA4, GUCY2D, GUC2D, LCA1, CORD6, RDH12, LCA3); Macular dystrophy (ELOVL4, ADMD, STGD2, STGD3, RDS, RP7, PRPH2, PRPH, AVMD, AOFMD, VMD2).

TABLE C CELLULAR FUNCTION GENES PI3K/AKT Signaling PRKCE; ITGAM; ITGA5; IRAK1; PRKAA2; EIF2AK2; PTEN; EIF4E; PRKCZ; GRK6; MAPK1; TSC1; PLK1; AKT2; IKBKB; PIK3CA; CDK8; CDKN1B; NFKB2; BCL2; PIK3CB; PPP2R1A; MAPK8; BCL2L1; MAPK3; TSC2; ITGA1; KRAS; EIF4EBP1; RELA; PRKCD; NOS3; PRKAA1; MAPK9; CDK2; PPP2CA; PIM1; ITGB7; YWHAZ; ILK; TP53; RAF1; IKBKG; RELB; DYRK1A; CDKN1A; ITGB1; MAP2K2; JAK1; AKT1; JAK2; PIK3R1; CHUK; PDPK1; PPP2R5C; CTNNB1; MAP2K1; NFKB1; PAK3; ITGB3; CCND1; GSK3A; FRAP1; SFN; ITGA2; TTK; CSNK1A1; BRAF; GSK3B; AKT3; FOXO1; SGK; HSP90AA1; RPS6KB1 ERK/MAPK Signaling PRKCE; ITGAM; ITGA5; HSPB1; IRAK1; PRKAA2; EIF2AK2; RAC1; RAP1A; TLN1; EIF4E; ELK1; GRK6; MAPK1; RAC2; PLK1; AKT2; PIK3CA; CDK8; CREB1; PRKCI; PTK2; FOS; RPS6KA4; PIK3CB; PPP2R1A; PIK3C3; MAPK8; MAPK3; ITGA1; ETS1; KRAS; MYCN; EIF4EBP1; PPARG; PRKCD; PRKAA1; MAPK9; SRC; CDK2; PPP2CA; PIM1; PIK3C2A; ITGB7; YWHAZ; PPP1CC; KSR1; PXN; RAF1; FYN; DYRK1A; ITGB1; MAP2K2; PAK4; PIK3R1; STAT3; PPP2R5C; MAP2K1; PAK3; ITGB3; ESR1; ITGA2; MYC; TTK; CSNK1A1; CRKL; BRAF; ATF4; PRKCA; SRF; STAT1; SGK Glucocorticoid Receptor RAC1; TAF4B; EP300; SMAD2; TRAF6; PCAF; ELK1; Signaling MAPK1; SMAD3; AKT2; IKBKB; NCOR2; UBE2I; PIK3CA; CREB1; FOS; HSPA5; NFKB2; BCL2; MAP3K14; STAT5B; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; BCL2L1; MAPK3; TSC22D3; MAPK10; NRIP1; KRAS; MAPK13; RELA; STAT5A; MAPK9; NOS2A; PBX1; NR3C1; PIK3C2A; CDKN1C; TRAF2; SERPINE1; NCOA3; MAPK14; TNF; RAF1; IKBKG; MAP3K7; CREBBP; CDKN1A; MAP2K2; JAK1; IL8; NCOA2; AKT1; JAK2; PIK3R1; CHUK; STAT3; MAP2K1; NFKB1; TGFBR1; ESR1; SMAD4; CEBPB; JUN; AR; AKT3; CCL2; MMP1; STAT1; IL6; HSP90AA1 Axonal Guidance PRKCE; ITGAM; ROCK1; ITGA5; CXCR4; ADAM12; Signaling IGF1; RAC1; RAP1A; EIF4E; PRKCZ; NRP1; NTRK2; ARHGEF7; SMO; ROCK2; MAPK1; PGF; RAC2; PTPN11; GNAS; AKT2; PIK3CA; ERBB2; PRKCI; PTK2; CFL1; GNAQ; PIK3CB; CXCL12; PIK3C3; WNT11; PRKD1; GNB2L1; ABL1; MAPK3; ITGA1; KRAS; RHOA; PRKCD; PIK3C2A; ITGB7; GLI2; PXN; VASP; RAF1; FYN; ITGB1; MAP2K2; PAK4; ADAM17; AKT1; PIK3R1; GLI1; WNT5A; ADAM10; MAP2K1; PAK3; ITGB3; CDC42; VEGFA; ITGA2; EPHA8; CRKL; RND1; GSK3B; AKT3; PRKCA Ephrin Receptor PRKCE; ITGAM; ROCK1; ITGA5; CXCR4; IRAK1; Signaling PRKAA2; EIF2AK2; RAC1; RAP1A; GRK6; ROCK2; MAPK1; PGF; RAC2; PTPN11; GNAS; PLK1; AKT2; DOK1; CDK8; CREB1; PTK2; CFL1; GNAQ; MAP3K14; CXCL12; MAPK8; GNB2L1; ABL1; MAPK3; ITGA1; KRAS; RHOA; PRKCD; PRKAA1; MAPK9; SRC; CDK2; PIM1; ITGB7; PXN; RAF1; FYN; DYRK1A; ITGB1; MAP2K2; PAK4; AKT1; JAK2; STAT3; ADAM10; MAP2K1; PAK3; ITGB3; CDC42; VEGFA; ITGA2; EPHA8; TTK; CSNK1A1; CRKL; BRAF; PTPN13; ATF4; AKT3; SGK Actin Cytoskeleton ACTN4; PRKCE; ITGAM; ROCK1; ITGA5; IRAK1; Signaling PRKAA2; EIF2AK2; RAC1; INS; ARHGEF7; GRK6; ROCK2; MAPK1; RAC2; PLK1; AKT2; PIK3CA; CDK8; PTK2; CFL1; PIK3CB; MYH9; DIAPH1; PIK3C3; MAPK8; F2R; MAPK3; SLC9A1; ITGA1; KRAS; RHOA; PRKCD; PRKAA1; MAPK9; CDK2; PIM1; PIK3C2A; ITGB7; PPP1CC; PXN; VIL2; RAF1; GSN; DYRK1A; ITGB1; MAP2K2; PAK4; PIP5K1A; PIK3R1; MAP2K1; PAK3; ITGB3; CDC42; APC; ITGA2; TTK; CSNK1A1; CRKL; BRAF; VAV3; SGK Huntington's Disease PRKCE; IGF1; EP300; RCOR1; PRKCZ; HDAC4; TGM2; Signaling MAPK1; CAPNS1; AKT2; EGFR; NCOR2; SP1; CAPN2; PIK3CA; HDAC5; CREB1; PRKCI; HSPA5; REST; GNAQ; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; IGF1R; PRKD1; GNB2L1; BCL2L1; CAPN1; MAPK3; CASP8; HDAC2; HDAC7A; PRKCD; HDAC11; MAPK9; HDAC9; PIK3C2A; HDAC3; TP53; CASP9; CREBBP; AKT1; PIK3R1; PDPK1; CASP1; APAF1; FRAP1; CASP2; JUN; BAX; ATF4; AKT3; PRKCA; CLTC; SGK; HDAC6; CASP3 Apoptosis Signaling PRKCE; ROCK1; BID; IRAK1; PRKAA2; EIF2AK2; BAK1; BIRC4; GRK6; MAPK1; CAPNS1; PLK1; AKT2; IKBKB; CAPN2; CDK8; FAS; NFKB2; BCL2; MAP3K14; MAPK8; BCL2L1; CAPN1; MAPK3; CASP8; KRAS; RELA; PRKCD; PRKAA1; MAPK9; CDK2; PIM1; TP53; TNF; RAF1; IKBKG; RELB; CASP9; DYRK1A; MAP2K2; CHUK; APAF1; MAP2K1; NFKB1; PAK3; LMNA; CASP2; BIRC2; TTK; CSNK1A1; BRAF; BAX; PRKCA; SGK; CASP3; BIRC3; PARP1 B Cell Receptor RAC1; PTEN; LYN; ELK1; MAPK1; RAC2; PTPN11; Signaling AKT2; IKBKB; PIK3CA; CREB1; SYK; NFKB2; CAMK2A; MAP3K14; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; BCL2L1; ABL1; MAPK3; ETS1; KRAS; MAPK13; RELA; PTPN6; MAPK9; EGR1; PIK3C2A; BTK; MAPK14; RAF1; IKBKG; RELB; MAP3K7; MAP2K2; AKT1; PIK3R1; CHUK; MAP2K1; NFKB1; CDC42; GSK3A; FRAP1; BCL6; BCL10; JUN; GSK3B; ATF4; AKT3; VAV3; RPS6KB1 Leukocyte Extravasation ACTN4; CD44; PRKCE; ITGAM; ROCK1; CXCR4; CYBA; Signaling RAC1; RAP1A; PRKCZ; ROCK2; RAC2; PTPN11; MMP14; PIK3CA; PRKCI; PTK2; PIK3CB; CXCL12; PIK3C3; MAPK8; PRKD1; ABL1; MAPK10; CYBB; MAPK13; RHOA; PRKCD; MAPK9; SRC; PIK3C2A; BTK; MAPK14; NOX1; PXN; VIL2; VASP; ITGB1; MAP2K2; CTNND1; PIK3R1; CTNNB1; CLDN1; CDC42; F11R; ITK; CRKL; VAV3; CTTN; PRKCA; MMP1; MMP9 Integrin Signaling ACTN4; ITGAM; ROCK1; ITGA5; RAC1; PTEN; RAP1A; TLN1; ARHGEF7; MAPK1; RAC2; CAPNS1; AKT2; CAPN2; PIK3CA; PTK2; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; CAV1; CAPN1; ABL1; MAPK3; ITGA1; KRAS; RHOA; SRC; PIK3C2A; ITGB7; PPP1CC; ILK; PXN; VASP; RAF1; FYN; ITGB1; MAP2K2; PAK4; AKT1; PIK3R1; TNK2; MAP2K1; PAK3; ITGB3; CDC42; RND3; ITGA2; CRKL; BRAF; GSK3B; AKT3 Acute Phase Response IRAK1; SOD2; MYD88; TRAF6; ELK1; MAPK1; PTPN11; Signaling AKT2; IKBKB; PIK3CA; FOS; NFKB2; MAP3K14; PIK3CB; MAPK8; RIPK1; MAPK3; IL6ST; KRAS; MAPK13; IL6R; RELA; SOCS1; MAPK9; FTL; NR3C1; TRAF2; SERPINE1; MAPK14; TNF; RAF1; PDK1; IKBKG; RELB; MAP3K7; MAP2K2; AKT1; JAK2; PIK3R1; CHUK; STAT3; MAP2K1; NFKB1; FRAP1; CEBPB; JUN; AKT3; IL1R1; IL6 PTEN Signaling ITGAM; ITGA5; RAC1; PTEN; PRKCZ; BCL2L11; MAPK1; RAC2; AKT2; EGFR; IKBKB; CBL; PIK3CA; CDKN1B; PTK2; NFKB2; BCL2; PIK3CB; BCL2L1; MAPK3; ITGA1; KRAS; ITGB7; ILK; PDGFRB; INSR; RAF1; IKBKG; CASP9; CDKN1A; ITGB1; MAP2K2; AKT1; PIK3R1; CHUK; PDGFRA; PDPK1; MAP2K1; NFKB1; ITGB3; CDC42; CCND1; GSK3A; ITGA2; GSK3B; AKT3; FOXO1; CASP3; RPS6KB1 p53 Signaling PTEN; EP300; BBC3; PCAF; FASN; BRCA1; GADD45A; BIRC5; AKT2; PIK3CA; CHEK1; TP53INP1; BCL2; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; THBS1; ATR; BCL2L1; E2F1; PMAIP1; CHEK2; TNFRSF10B; TP73; RB1; HDAC9; CDK2; PIK3C2A; MAPK14; TP53; LRDD; CDKN1A; HIPK2; AKT1; PIK3R1; RRM2B; APAF1; CTNNB1; SIRT1; CCND1; PRKDC; ATM; SFN; CDKN2A; JUN; SNAI2; GSK3B; BAX; AKT3 Aryl Hydrocarbon HSPB1; EP300; FASN; TGM2; RXRA; MAPK1; NQO1; Receptor Signaling NCOR2; SP1; ARNT; CDKN1B; FOS; CHEK1; SMARCA4; NFKB2; MAPK8; ALDH1A1; ATR; E2F1; MAPK3; NRIP1; CHEK2; RELA; TP73; GSTP1; RB1; SRC; CDK2; AHR; NFE2L2; NCOA3; TP53; TNF; CDKN1A; NCOA2; APAF1; NFKB1; CCND1; ATM; ESR1; CDKN2A; MYC; JUN; ESR2; BAX; IL6; CYP1B1; HSP90AA1 Xenobiotic Metabolism PRKCE; EP300; PRKCZ; RXRA; MAPK1; NQO1; Signaling NCOR2; PIK3CA; ARNT; PRKCI; NFKB2; CAMK2A; PIK3CB; PPP2R1A; PIK3C3; MAPK8; PRKD1; ALDH1A1; MAPK3; NRIP1; KRAS; MAPK13; PRKCD; GSTP1; MAPK9; NOS2A; ABCB1; AHR; PPP2CA; FTL; NFE2L2; PIK3C2A; PPARGC1A; MAPK14; TNF; RAF1; CREBBP; MAP2K2; PIK3R1; PPP2R5C; MAP2K1; NFKB1; KEAP1; PRKCA; EIF2AK3; IL6; CYP1B1; HSP90AA1 SAPK/JNK Signaling PRKCE; IRAK1; PRKAA2; EIF2AK2; RAC1; ELK1; GRK6; MAPK1; GADD45A; RAC2; PLK1; AKT2; PIK3CA; FADD; CDK8; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; RIPK1; GNB2L1; IRS1; MAPK3; MAPK10; DAXX; KRAS; PRKCD; PRKAA1; MAPK9; CDK2; PIM1; PIK3C2A; TRAF2; TP53; LCK; MAP3K7; DYRK1A; MAP2K2; PIK3R1; MAP2K1; PAK3; CDC42; JUN; TTK; CSNK1A1; CRKL; BRAF; SGK PPAr/RXR Signaling PRKAA2; EP300; INS; SMAD2; TRAF6; PPARA; FASN; RXRA; MAPK1; SMAD3; GNAS; IKBKB; NCOR2; ABCA1; GNAQ; NFKB2; MAP3K14; STAT5B; MAPK8; IRS1; MAPK3; KRAS; RELA; PRKAA1; PPARGC1A; NCOA3; MAPK14; INSR; RAF1; IKBKG; RELB; MAP3K7; CREBBP; MAP2K2; JAK2; CHUK; MAP2K1; NFKB1; TGFBR1; SMAD4; JUN; IL1R1; PRKCA; IL6; HSP90AA1; ADIPOQ NF-KB Signaling IRAK1; EIF2AK2; EP300; INS; MYD88; PRKCZ; TRAF6; TBK1; AKT2; EGFR; IKBKB; PIK3CA; BTRC; NFKB2; MAP3K14; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; RIPK1; HDAC2; KRAS; RELA; PIK3C2A; TRAF2; TLR4; PDGFRB; TNF; INSR; LCK; IKBKG; RELB; MAP3K7; CREBBP; AKT1; PIK3R1; CHUK; PDGFRA; NFKB1; TLR2; BCL10; GSK3B; AKT3; TNFAIP3; IL1R1 Neuregulin Signaling ERBB4; PRKCE; ITGAM; ITGA5; PTEN; PRKCZ; ELK1; MAPK1; PTPN11; AKT2; EGFR; ERBB2; PRKCI; CDKN1B; STAT5B; PRKD1; MAPK3; ITGA1; KRAS; PRKCD; STAT5A; SRC; ITGB7; RAF1; ITGB1; MAP2K2; ADAM17; AKT1; PIK3R1; PDPK1; MAP2K1; ITGB3; EREG; FRAP1; PSEN1; ITGA2; MYC; NRG1; CRKL; AKT3; PRKCA; HSP90AA1; RPS6KB1 Wnt & Beta catenin CD44; EP300; LRP6; DVL3; CSNK1E; GJA1; SMO; Signaling AKT2; PIN1; CDH1; BTRC; GNAQ; MARK2; PPP2R1A; WNT11; SRC; DKK1; PPP2CA; SOX6; SFRP2; ILK; LEF1; SOX9; TP53; MAP3K7; CREBBP; TCF7L2; AKT1; PPP2R5C; WNT5A; LRP5; CTNNB1; TGFBR1; CCND1; GSK3A; DVL1; APC; CDKN2A; MYC; CSNK1A1; GSK3B; AKT3; SOX2 Insulin Receptor PTEN; INS; EIF4E; PTPN1; PRKCZ; MAPK1; TSC1; Signaling PTPN11; AKT2; CBL; PIK3CA; PRKCI; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; IRS1; MAPK3; TSC2; KRAS; EIF4EBP1; SLC2A4; PIK3C2A; PPP1CC; INSR; RAF1; FYN; MAP2K2; JAK1; AKT1; JAK2; PIK3R1; PDPK1; MAP2K1; GSK3A; FRAP1; CRKL; GSK3B; AKT3; FOXO1; SGK; RPS6KB1 IL-6 Signaling HSPB1; TRAF6; MAPKAPK2; ELK1; MAPK1; PTPN11; IKBKB; FOS; NFKB2; MAP3K14; MAPK8; MAPK3; MAPK10; IL6ST; KRAS; MAPK13; IL6R; RELA; SOCS1; MAPK9; ABCB1; TRAF2; MAPK14; TNF; RAF1; IKBKG; RELB; MAP3K7; MAP2K2; IL8; JAK2; CHUK; STAT3; MAP2K1; NFKB1; CEBPB; JUN; IL1R1; SRF; IL6 Hepatic Cholestasis PRKCE; IRAK1; INS; MYD88; PRKCZ; TRAF6; PPARA; RXRA; IKBKB; PRKCI; NFKB2; MAP3K14; MAPK8; PRKD1; MAPK10; RELA; PRKCD; MAPK9; ABCB1; TRAF2; TLR4; TNF; INSR; IKBKG; RELB; MAP3K7; IL8; CHUK; NR1H2; TJP2; NFKB1; ESR1; SREBF1; FGFR4; JUN; IL1R1; PRKCA; IL6 IGF-1 Signaling IGF1; PRKCZ; ELK1; MAPK1; PTPN11; NEDD4; AKT2; PIK3CA; PRKCI; PTK2; FOS; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; IGF1R; IRS1; MAPK3; IGFBP7; KRAS; PIK3C2A; YWHAZ; PXN; RAF1; CASP9; MAP2K2; AKT1; PIK3R1; PDPK1; MAP2K1; IGFBP2; SFN; JUN; CYR61; AKT3; FOXO1; SRF; CTGF; RPS6KB1 NRF2-mediated PRKCE; EP300; SOD2; PRKCZ; MAPK1; SQSTM1; Oxidative NQO1; PIK3CA; PRKCI; FOS; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; Stress Response PRKD1; MAPK3; KRAS; PRKCD; GSTP1; MAPK9; FTL; NFE2L2; PIK3C2A; MAPK14; RAF1; MAP3K7; CREBBP; MAP2K2; AKT1; PIK3R1; MAP2K1; PPIB; JUN; KEAP1; GSK3B; ATF4; PRKCA; EIF2AK3; HSP90AA1 Hepatic Fibrosis/Hepatic EDN1; IGF1; KDR; FLT1; SMAD2; FGFR1; MET; PGF; Stellate Cell Activation SMAD3; EGFR; FAS; CSF1; NFKB2; BCL2; MYH9; IGF1R; IL6R; RELA; TLR4; PDGFRB; TNF; RELB; IL8; PDGFRA; NFKB1; TGFBR1; SMAD4; VEGFA; BAX; IL1R1; CCL2; HGF; MMP1; STAT1; IL6; CTGF; MMP9 PPAR Signaling EP300; INS; TRAF6; PPARA; RXRA; MAPK1; IKBKB; NCOR2; FOS; NFKB2; MAP3K14; STAT5B; MAPK3; NRIP1; KRAS; PPARG; RELA; STAT5A; TRAF2; PPARGC1A; PDGFRB; TNF; INSR; RAF1; IKBKG; RELB; MAP3K7; CREBBP; MAP2K2; CHUK; PDGFRA; MAP2K1; NFKB1; JUN; IL1R1; HSP90AA1 Fc Epsilon RI Signaling PRKCE; RAC1; PRKCZ; LYN; MAPK1; RAC2; PTPN11; AKT2; PIK3CA; SYK; PRKCI; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; PRKD1; MAPK3; MAPK10; KRAS; MAPK13; PRKCD; MAPK9; PIK3C2A; BTK; MAPK14; TNF; RAF1; FYN; MAP2K2; AKT1; PIK3R1; PDPK1; MAP2K1; AKT3; VAV3; PRKCA G-Protein Coupled PRKCE; RAP1A; RGS16; MAPK1; GNAS; AKT2; IKBKB; Receptor Signaling PIK3CA; CREB1; GNAQ; NFKB2; CAMK2A; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK3; KRAS; RELA; SRC; PIK3C2A; RAF1; IKBKG; RELB; FYN; MAP2K2; AKT1; PIK3R1; CHUK; PDPK1; STAT3; MAP2K1; NFKB1; BRAF; ATF4; AKT3; PRKCA Inositol Phosphate PRKCE; IRAK1; PRKAA2; EIF2AK2; PTEN; GRK6; Metabolism MAPK1; PLK1; AKT2; PIK3CA; CDK8; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; MAPK3; PRKCD; PRKAA1; MAPK9; CDK2; PIM1; PIK3C2A; DYRK1A; MAP2K2; PIP5K1A; PIK3R1; MAP2K1; PAK3; ATM; TTK; CSNK1A1; BRAF; SGK PDGF Signaling EIF2AK2; ELK1; ABL2; MAPK1; PIK3CA; FOS; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; CAV1; ABL1; MAPK3; KRAS; SRC; PIK3C2A; PDGFRB; RAF1; MAP2K2; JAK1; JAK2; PIK3R1; PDGFRA; STAT3; SPHK1; MAP2K1; MYC; JUN; CRKL; PRKCA; SRF; STAT1; SPHK2 VEGF Signaling ACTN4; ROCK1; KDR; FLT1; ROCK2; MAPK1; PGF; AKT2; PIK3CA; ARNT; PTK2; BCL2; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; BCL2L1; MAPK3; KRAS; HIF1A; NOS3; PIK3C2A; PXN; RAF1; MAP2K2; ELAVL1; AKT1; PIK3R1; MAP2K1; SFN; VEGFA; AKT3; FOXO1; PRKCA Natural Killer Cell PRKCE; RAC1; PRKCZ; MAPK1; RAC2; PTPN11; Signaling KIR2DL3; AKT2; PIK3CA; SYK; PRKCI; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; PRKD1; MAPK3; KRAS; PRKCD; PTPN6; PIK3C2A; LCK; RAF1; FYN; MAP2K2; PAK4; AKT1; PIK3R1; MAP2K1; PAK3; AKT3; VAV3; PRKCA Cell Cycle: G1/S HDAC4; SMAD3; SUV39H1; HDAC5; CDKN1B; BTRC; Checkpoint Regulation ATR; ABL1; E2F1; HDAC2; HDAC7A; RB1; HDAC11; HDAC9; CDK2; E2F2; HDAC3; TP53; CDKN1A; CCND1; E2F4; ATM; RBL2; SMAD4; CDKN2A; MYC; NRG1; GSK3B; RBL1; HDAC6 T Cell Receptor RAC1; ELK1; MAPK1; IKBKB; CBL; PIK3CA; FOS; Signaling NFKB2; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; MAPK3; KRAS; RELA; PIK3C2A; BTK; LCK; RAF1; IKBKG; RELB; FYN; MAP2K2; PIK3R1; CHUK; MAP2K1; NFKB1; ITK; BCL10; JUN; VAV3 Death Receptor Signaling CRADD; HSPB1; BID; BIRC4; TBK1; IKBKB; FADD; FAS; NFKB2; BCL2; MAP3K14; MAPK8; RIPK1; CASP8; DAXX; TNFRSF10B; RELA; TRAF2; TNF; IKBKG; RELB; CASP9; CHUK; APAF1; NFKB1; CASP2; BIRC2; CASP3; BIRC3 FGF Signaling RAC1; FGFR1; MET; MAPKAPK2; MAPK1; PTPN11; AKT2; PIK3CA; CREB1; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; MAPK3; MAPK13; PTPN6; PIK3C2A; MAPK14; RAF1; AKT1; PIK3R1; STAT3; MAP2K1; FGFR4; CRKL; ATF4; AKT3; PRKCA; HGF GM-CSF Signaling LYN; ELK1; MAPK1; PTPN11; AKT2; PIK3CA; CAMK2A; STAT5B; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; GNB2L1; BCL2L1; MAPK3; ETS1; KRAS; RUNX1; PIM1; PIK3C2A; RAF1; MAP2K2; AKT1; JAK2; PIK3R1; STAT3; MAP2K1; CCND1; AKT3; STAT1 Amyotrophic Lateral BID; IGF1; RAC1; BIRC4; PGF; CAPNS1; CAPN2; Sclerosis Signaling PIK3CA; BCL2; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; BCL2L1; CAPN1; PIK3C2A; TP53; CASP9; PIK3R1; RAB5A; CASP1; APAF1; VEGFA; BIRC2; BAX; AKT3; CASP3; BIRC3 JAK/Stat Signaling PTPN1; MAPK1; PTPN11; AKT2; PIK3CA; STAT5B; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK3; KRAS; SOCS1; STAT5A; PTPN6; PIK3C2A; RAF1; CDKN1A; MAP2K2; JAK1; AKT1; JAK2; PIK3R1; STAT3; MAP2K1; FRAP1; AKT3; STAT1 Nicotinate and PRKCE; IRAK1; PRKAA2; EIF2AK2; GRK6; MAPK1; Nicotinamide PLK1; AKT2; CDK8; MAPK8; MAPK3; PRKCD; PRKAA1; Metabolism PBEF1; MAPK9; CDK2; PIM1; DYRK1A; MAP2K2; MAP2K1; PAK3; NT5E; TTK; CSNK1A1; BRAF; SGK Chemokine Signaling CXCR4; ROCK2; MAPK1; PTK2; FOS; CFL1; GNAQ; CAMK2A; CXCL12; MAPK8; MAPK3; KRAS; MAPK13; RHOA; CCR3; SRC; PPP1CC; MAPK14; NOX1; RAF1; MAP2K2; MAP2K1; JUN; CCL2; PRKCA IL-2 Signaling ELK1; MAPK1; PTPN11; AKT2; PIK3CA; SYK; FOS; STAT5B; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; MAPK3; KRAS; SOCS1; STAT5A; PIK3C2A; LCK; RAF1; MAP2K2; JAK1; AKT1; PIK3R1; MAP2K1; JUN; AKT3 Synaptic Long Term PRKCE; IGF1; PRKCZ; PRDX6; LYN; MAPK1; GNAS; Depression PRKCI; GNAQ; PPP2R1A; IGF1R; PRKD1; MAPK3; KRAS; GRN; PRKCD; NOS3; NOS2A; PPP2CA; YWHAZ; RAF1; MAP2K2; PPP2R5C; MAP2K1; PRKCA Estrogen Receptor TAF4B; EP300; CARM1; PCAF; MAPK1; NCOR2; Signaling SMARCA4; MAPK3; NRIP1; KRAS; SRC; NR3C1; HDAC3; PPARGC1A; RBM9; NCOA3; RAF1; CREBBP; MAP2K2; NCOA2; MAP2K1; PRKDC; ESR1; ESR2 Protein Ubiquitination TRAF6; SMURF1; BIRC4; BRCA1; UCHL1; NEDD4; Pathway CBL; UBE2I; BTRC; HSPA5; USP7; USP10; FBXW7; USP9X; STUB1; USP22; B2M; BIRC2; PARK2; USP8; USP1; VHL; HSP90AA1; BIRC3 IL-10 Signaling TRAF6; CCR1; ELK1; IKBKB; SP1; FOS; NFKB2; MAP3K14; MAPK8; MAPK13; RELA; MAPK14; TNF; IKBKG; RELB; MAP3K7; JAK1; CHUK; STAT3; NFKB1; JUN; IL1R1; IL6 VDR/RXR Activation PRKCE; EP300; PRKCZ; RXRA; GADD45A; HES1; NCOR2; SP1; PRKCI; CDKN1B; PRKD1; PRKCD; RUNX2; KLF4; YY1; NCOA3; CDKN1A; NCOA2; SPP1; LRP5; CEBPB; FOXO1; PRKCA TGF-beta Signaling EP300; SMAD2; SMURF1; MAPK1; SMAD3; SMAD1; FOS; MAPK8; MAPK3; KRAS; MAPK9; RUNX2; SERPINE1; RAF1; MAP3K7; CREBBP; MAP2K2; MAP2K1; TGFBR1; SMAD4; JUN; SMAD5 Toll-like Receptor IRAK1; EIF2AK2; MYD88; TRAF6; PPARA; ELK1; Signaling IKBKB; FOS; NFKB2; MAP3K14; MAPK8; MAPK13; RELA; TLR4; MAPK14; IKBKG; RELB; MAP3K7; CHUK; NFKB1; TLR2; JUN p38 MAPK Signaling HSPB1; IRAK1; TRAF6; MAPKAPK2; ELK1; FADD; FAS; CREB1; DDIT3; RPS6KA4; DAXX; MAPK13; TRAF2; MAPK14; TNF; MAP3K7; TGFBR1; MYC; ATF4; IL1R1; SRF; STAT1 Neurotrophin/TRK NTRK2; MAPK1; PTPN11; PIK3CA; CREB1; FOS; Signaling PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; MAPK3; KRAS; PIK3C2A; RAF1; MAP2K2; AKT1; PIK3R1; PDPK1; MAP2K1; CDC42; JUN; ATF4 FXR/RXR Activation INS; PPARA; FASN; RXRA; AKT2; SDC1; MAPK8; APOB; MAPK10; PPARG; MTTP; MAPK9; PPARGC1A; TNF; CREBBP; AKT1; SREBF1; FGFR4; AKT3; FOXO1 Synaptic Long Term PRKCE; RAP1A; EP300; PRKCZ; MAPK1; CREB1; Potentiation PRKCI; GNAQ; CAMK2A; PRKD1; MAPK3; KRAS; PRKCD; PPP1CC; RAF1; CREBBP; MAP2K2; MAP2K1; ATF4; PRKCA Calcium Signaling RAP1A; EP300; HDAC4; MAPK1; HDAC5; CREB1; CAMK2A; MYH9; MAPK3; HDAC2; HDAC7A; HDAC11; HDAC9; HDAC3; CREBBP; CALR; CAMKK2; ATF4; HDAC6 EGF Signaling ELK1; MAPK1; EGFR; PIK3CA; FOS; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; MAPK8; MAPK3; PIK3C2A; RAF1; JAK1; PIK3R1; STAT3; MAP2K1; JUN; PRKCA; SRF; STAT1 Hypoxia Signaling in the EDN1; PTEN; EP300; NQO1; UBE2I; CREB1; ARNT; Cardiovascular System HIF1A; SLC2A4; NOS3; TP53; LDHA; AKT1; ATM; VEGFA; JUN; ATF4; VHL; HSP90AA1 LPS/IL-1 Mediated IRAK1; MYD88; TRAF6; PPARA; RXRA; ABCA1; Inhibition MAPK8; ALDH1A1; GSTP1; MAPK9; ABCB1; TRAF2; of RXR Function TLR4; TNF; MAP3K7; NR1H2; SREBF1; JUN; IL1R1 LXR/RXR Activation FASN; RXRA; NCOR2; ABCA1; NFKB2; IRF3; RELA; NOS2A; TLR4; TNF; RELB; LDLR; NR1H2; NFKB1; SREBF1; IL1R1; CCL2; IL6; MMP9 Amyloid Processing PRKCE; CSNK1E; MAPK1; CAPNS1; AKT2; CAPN2; CAPN1; MAPK3; MAPK13; MAPT; MAPK14; AKT1; PSEN1; CSNK1A1; GSK3B; AKT3; APP IL-4 Signaling AKT2; PIK3CA; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; IRS1; KRAS; SOCS1; PTPN6; NR3C1; PIK3C2A; JAK1; AKT1; JAK2; PIK3R1; FRAP1; AKT3; RPS6KB1 Cell Cycle: G2/M DNA EP300; PCAF; BRCA1; GADD45A; PLK1; BTRC; Damage Checkpoint CHEK1; ATR; CHEK2; YWHAZ; TP53; CDKN1A; Regulation PRKDC; ATM; SFN; CDKN2A Nitric Oxide Signaling in KDR; FLT1; PGF; AKT2; PIK3CA; PIK3CB; PIK3C3; the Cardiovascular System CAV1; PRKCD; NOS3; PIK3C2A; AKT1; PIK3R1; VEGFA; AKT3; HSP90AA1 Purine Metabolism NME2; SMARCA4; MYH9; RRM2; ADAR; EIF2AK4; PKM2; ENTPD1; RAD51; RRM2B; TJP2; RAD51C; NT5E; POLD1; NME1 cAMP-mediated RAP1A; MAPK1; GNAS; CREB1; CAMK2A; MAPK3; Signaling SRC; RAF1; MAP2K2; STAT3; MAP2K1; BRAF; ATF4 Mitochondrial SOD2; MAPK8; CASP8; MAPK10; MAPK9; CASP9; Dysfunction PARK7; PSEN1; PARK2; APP; CASP3 Notch Signaling HES1; JAG1; NUMB; NOTCH4; ADAM17; NOTCH2; PSEN1; NOTCH3; NOTCH1; DLL4 Endoplasmic Reticulum HSPA5; MAPK8; XBP1; TRAF2; ATF6; CASP9; ATF4; Stress Pathway EIF2AK3; CASP3 Pyrimidine Metabolism NME2; AICDA; RRM2; EIF2AK4; ENTPD1; RRM2B; NT5E; POLD1; NME1 Parkinson's Signaling UCHL1; MAPK8; MAPK13; MAPK14; CASP9; PARK7; PARK2; CASP3 Cardiac & Beta GNAS; GNAQ; PPP2R1A; GNB2L1; PPP2CA; PPP1CC; Adrenergic PPP2R5C Signaling Glycolysis/Gluconeogenesis HK2; GCK; GPI; ALDH1A1; PKM2; LDHA; HK1 Interferon Signaling IRF1; SOCS1; JAK1; JAK2; IFITM1; STAT1; IFIT3 Sonic Hedgehog ARRB2; SMO; GLI2; DYRK1A; GLI1; GSK3B; DYRK1B Signaling Glycerophospholipid PLD1; GRN; GPAM; YWHAZ; SPHK1; SPHK2 Metabolism Phospholipid PRDX6; PLD1; GRN; YWHAZ; SPHK1; SPHK2 Degradation Tryptophan Metabolism SIAH2; PRMT5; NEDD4; ALDH1A1; CYP1B1; SIAH1 Lysine Degradation SUV39H1; EHMT2; NSD1; SETD7; PPP2R5C Nucleotide Excision ERCC5; ERCC4; XPA; XPC; ERCC1 Repair Pathway Starch and Sucrose UCHL1; HK2; GCK; GPI; HK1 Metabolism Aminosugars Metabolism NQO1; HK2; GCK; HK1 Arachidonic Acid PRDX6; GRN; YWHAZ; CYP1B1 Metabolism Circadian Rhythm CSNK1E; CREB1; ATF4; NR1D1 Signaling Coagulation System BDKRB1; F2R; SERPINE1; F3 Dopamine Receptor PPP2R1A; PPP2CA; PPP1CC; PPP2R5C Signaling Glutathione Metabolism IDH2; GSTP1; ANPEP; IDH1 Glycerolipid Metabolism ALDH1A1; GPAM; SPHK1; SPHK2 Linoleic Acid PRDX6; GRN; YWHAZ; CYP1B1 Metabolism Methionine Metabolism DNMT1; DNMT3B; AHCY; DNMT3A Pyruvate Metabolism GLO1; ALDH1A1; PKM2; LDHA Arginine and Proline ALDH1A1; NOS3; NOS2A Metabolism Eicosanoid Signaling PRDX6; GRN; YWHAZ Fructose and Mannose HK2; GCK; HK1 Metabolism Galactose Metabolism HK2; GCK; HK1 Stilbene, Coumarine and PRDX6; PRDX1; TYR Lignin Biosynthesis Antigen Presentation CALR; B2M Pathway Biosynthesis of Steroids NQO1; DHCR7 Butanoate Metabolism ALDH1A1; NLGN1 Citrate Cycle IDH2; IDH1 Fatty Acid Metabolism ALDH1A1; CYP1B1 Glycerophospholipid PRDX6; CHKA Metabolism Histidine Metabolism PRMT5; ALDH1A1 Inositol Metabolism ERO1L; APEX1 Metabolism of GSTP1; CYP1B1 Xenobiotics by Cytochrome p450 Methane Metabolism PRDX6; PRDX1 Phenylalanine PRDX6; PRDX1 Metabolism Propanoate Metabolism ALDH1A1; LDHA Selenoamino Acid PRMT5; AHCY Metabolism Sphingolipid Metabolism SPHK1; SPHK2 Aminophosphonate PRMT5 Metabolism Androgen and Estrogen PRMT5 Metabolism Ascorbate and Aldarate ALDH1A1 Metabolism Bile Acid Biosynthesis ALDH1A1 Cysteine Metabolism LDHA Fatty Acid Biosynthesis FASN Glutamate Receptor GNB2L1 Signaling NRF2-mediated PRDX1 Oxidative Stress Response Pentose Phosphate GPI Pathway Pentose and Glucuronate UCHL1 Interconversions Retinol Metabolism ALDH1A1 Riboflavin Metabolism TYR Tyrosine Metabolism PRMT5, TYR Ubiquinone Biosynthesis PRMT5 Valine, Leucine and ALDH1A1 Isoleucine Degradation Glycine, Serine and CHKA Threonine Metabolism Lysine Degradation ALDH1A1 Pain/Taste TRPM5; TRPA1 Pain TRPM7; TRPC5; TRPC6; TRPC1; Cnr1; cnr2; Grk2; Trpa1; Pomc; Cgrp; Crf; Pka; Era; Nr2b; TRPM5; Prkaca; Prkacb; Prkar1a; Prkar2a Mitochondrial Function AIF; CytC; SMAC (Diablo); Aifm-1; Aifm-2 Developmental BMP-4; Chordin (Chrd); Noggin (Nog); WNT (Wnt2; Neurology Wnt2b; Wnt3a; Wnt4; Wnt5a; Wnt6; Wnt7b; Wnt8b; Wnt9a; Wnt9b; Wnt10a; Wnt10b; Wnt16); beta-catenin; Dkk-1; Frizzled related proteins; Otx-2; Gbx2; FGF-8; Reelin; Dab1; unc-86 (Pou4f1 or Brn3a); Numb; Reln

List of Exemplary Target Genes, Target Loci, Target Polynucleotides

By way of example, the chromosomal sequence may comprise, but is not limited to, IL1B (interleukin 1, beta), XDH (xanthine dehydrogenase), TP53 (tumor protein p53), PTGIS (prostaglandin 12 (prostacyclin) synthase), MB (myoglobin), IL4 (interleukin 4), ANGPT1 (angiopoietin 1), ABCG8 (ATP-binding cassette, sub-family G (WHITE), member 8), CTSK (cathepsin K), PTGIR (prostaglandin 12 (prostacyclin) receptor (IP)), KCNJ11 (potassium inwardly-rectifying channel, subfamily J, member 11), INS (insulin), CRP (C-reactive protein, pentraxin-related), PDGFRB (platelet-derived growth factor receptor, beta polypeptide), CCNA2 (cyclin A2), PDGFB (platelet-derived growth factor beta polypeptide (simian sarcoma viral (v-sis) oncogene homolog)), KCNJ5 (potassium inwardly-rectifying channel, subfamily J, member 5), KCNN3 (potassium intermediate/small conductance calcium-activated channel, subfamily N, member 3), CAPN10 (calpain 10), PTGES (prostaglandin E synthase), ADRA2B (adrenergic, alpha-2B−, receptor), ABCG5 (ATP-binding cassette, sub-family G (WHITE), member 5), PRDX2 (peroxiredoxin 2), CAPN5 (calpain 5), PARP14 (poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase family, member 14), MEX3C (mex-3 homolog C (C. elegans)), ACE angiotensin I converting enzyme (peptidyl-dipeptidase A) 1), TNF (tumor necrosis factor (TNF superfamily, member 2)), IL6 (interleukin 6 (interferon, beta 2)), STN (statin), SERPINE1 (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade E (nexin, plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1), member 1), ALB (albumin), ADIPOQ (adiponectin, C1Q and collagen domain containing), APOB (apolipoprotein B (including Ag(x) antigen)), APOE (apolipoprotein E), LEP (leptin), MTHFR (5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (NADPH)), APOA1 (apolipoprotein A-I), EDN1 (endothelin 1), NPPB (natriuretic peptide precursor B), NOS3 (nitric oxide synthase 3 (endothelial cell)), PPARG (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma), PLAT (plasminogen activator, tissue), PTGS2 (prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (prostaglandin G/H synthase and cyclooxygenase)), CETP (cholesteryl ester transfer protein, plasma), AGTR1 (angiotensin II receptor, type 1), HMGCR (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-Coenzyme A reductase), IGF1 (insulin-like growth factor 1 (somatomedin C)), SELE (selectin E), REN (renin), PPARA (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha), PON1 (paraoxonase 1), KNG1 (kininogen 1), CCL2 (chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2), LPL (lipoprotein lipase), VWF (von Willebrand factor), F2 (coagulation factor II (thrombin)), ICAM1 (intercellular adhesion molecule 1), TGFB1 (transforming growth factor, beta 1), NPPA (natriuretic peptide precursor A), IL10 (interleukin 10), EPO (erythropoietin), SOD1 (superoxide dismutase 1, soluble), VCAM1 (vascular cell adhesion molecule 1), IFNG (interferon, gamma), LPA (lipoprotein, Lp(a)), MPO (myeloperoxidase), ESR1 (estrogen receptor 1), MAPK1 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 1), HP (haptoglobin), F3 (coagulation factor III (thromboplastin, tissue factor)), CST3 (cystatin C), COG2 (component of oligomeric golgi complex 2), MMP9 (matrix metallopeptidase 9 (gelatinase B, 92 kDa gelatinase, 92 kDa type IV collagenase)), SERPINC1 (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade C (antithrombin), member 1), F8 (coagulation factor VIII, procoagulant component), HMOX1 (heme oxygenase (decycling) 1), APOC3 (apolipoprotein C-III), IL8 (interleukin 8), PROK1 (prokineticin 1), CBS (cystathionine-beta-synthase), NOS2 (nitric oxide synthase 2, inducible), TLR4 (toll-like receptor 4), SELP (selectin P (granule membrane protein 140 kDa, antigen CD62)), ABCA1 (ATP-binding cassette, sub-family A (ABC1), member 1), AGT (angiotensinogen (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade A, member 8)), LDLR (low density lipoprotein receptor), GPT (glutamic-pyruvate transaminase (alanine aminotransferase)), VEGFA (vascular endothelial growth factor A), NR3C2 (nuclear receptor subfamily 3, group C, member 2), IL18 (interleukin 18 (interferon-gamma-inducing factor)), NOS1 (nitric oxide synthase 1 (neuronal)), NR3C1 (nuclear receptor subfamily 3, group C, member 1 (glucocorticoid receptor)), FGB (fibrinogen beta chain), HGF (hepatocyte growth factor (hepapoietin A; scatter factor)), ILIA (interleukin 1, alpha), RETN (resistin), AKT1 (v-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog 1), LIPC (lipase, hepatic), HSPD1 (heat shock 60 kDa protein 1 (chaperonin)), MAPK14 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 14), SPP1 (secreted phosphoprotein 1), ITGB3 (integrin, beta 3 (platelet glycoprotein 111a, antigen CD61)), CAT (catalase), UTS2 (urotensin 2), THBD (thrombomodulin), F10 (coagulation factor X), CP (ceruloplasmin (ferroxidase)), TNFRSF11B (tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, member 11b), EDNRA (endothelin receptor type A), EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor (erythroblastic leukemia viral (v-erb-b) oncogene homolog, avian)), MMP2 (matrix metallopeptidase 2 (gelatinase A, 72 kDa gelatinase, 72 kDa type IV collagenase)), PLG (plasminogen), NPY (neuropeptide Y), RHOD (ras homolog gene family, member D), MAPK8 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 8), MYC (v-myc myelocytomatosis viral oncogene homolog (avian)), FN1 (fibronectin 1), CMA1 (chymase 1, mast cell), PLAU (plasminogen activator, urokinase), GNB3 (guanine nucleotide binding protein (G protein), beta polypeptide 3), ADRB2 (adrenergic, beta-2-, receptor, surface), APOA5 (apolipoprotein A-V), SOD2 (superoxide dismutase 2, mitochondrial), F5 (coagulation factor V (proaccelerin, labile factor)), VDR (vitamin D (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3) receptor), ALOX5 (arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase), HLA-DRB1 (major histocompatibility complex, class II, DR beta 1), PARP1 (poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1), CD40LG (CD40 ligand), PON2 (paraoxonase 2), AGER (advanced glycosylation end product-specific receptor), IRS1 (insulin receptor substrate 1), PTGS1 (prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 1 (prostaglandin G/H synthase and cyclooxygenase)), ECE1 (endothelin converting enzyme 1), F7 (coagulation factor VII (serum prothrombin conversion accelerator)), URN (interleukin 1 receptor antagonist), EPHX2 (epoxide hydrolase 2, cytoplasmic), IGFBP1 (insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1), MAPK10 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 10), FAS (Fas (TNF receptor superfamily, member 6)), ABCB1 (ATP-binding cassette, sub-family B (MDR/TAP), member 1), JUN (jun oncogene), IGFBP3 (insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3), CD14 (CD14 molecule), PDE5A (phosphodiesterase 5A, cGMP-specific), AGTR2 (angiotensin II receptor, type 2), CD40 (CD40 molecule, TNF receptor superfamily member 5), LCAT (lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase), CCR5 (chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 5), MMP1 (matrix metallopeptidase 1 (interstitial collagenase)), TIMP1 (TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 1), ADM (adrenomedullin), DYT10 (dystonia 10), STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (acute-phase response factor)), MMP3 (matrix metallopeptidase 3 (stromelysin 1, progelatinase)), ELN (elastin), USF1 (upstream transcription factor 1), CFH (complement factor H), HSPA4 (heat shock 70 kDa protein 4), MMP12 (matrix metallopeptidase 12 (macrophage elastase)), MME (membrane metallo-endopeptidase), F2R (coagulation factor II (thrombin) receptor), SELL (selectin L), CTSB (cathepsin B), ANXA5 (annexin A5), ADRB1 (adrenergic, beta-1-, receptor), CYBA (cytochrome b-245, alpha polypeptide), FGA (fibrinogen alpha chain), GGT1 (gamma-glutamyltransferase 1), LIPG (lipase, endothelial), HIF1A (hypoxia inducible factor 1, alpha subunit (basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor)), CXCR4 (chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 4), PROC (protein C (inactivator of coagulation factors Va and VIIIa)), SCARB1 (scavenger receptor class B, member 1), CD79A (CD79a molecule, immunoglobulin-associated alpha), PLTP (phospholipid transfer protein), ADD1 (adducin 1 (alpha)), FGG (fibrinogen gamma chain), SAA1 (serum amyloid A1), KCNH2 (potassium voltage-gated channel, subfamily H (eag-related), member 2), DPP4 (dipeptidyl-peptidase 4), G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase), NPR1 (natriuretic peptide receptor A/guanylate cyclase A (atrionatriuretic peptide receptor A)), VTN (vitronectin), KIAA0101 (KIAA0101), FOS (FBJ murine osteosarcoma viral oncogene homolog), TLR2 (toll-like receptor 2), PPIG (peptidylprolyl isomerase G (cyclophilin G)), IL1R1 (interleukin 1 receptor, type I), AR (androgen receptor), CYP1A1 (cytochrome P450, family 1, subfamily A, polypeptide 1), SERPINA1 (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade A (alpha-1 antiproteinase, antitrypsin), member 1), MTR (5-methyltetrahydrofolate-homocysteine methyltransferase), RBP4 (retinol binding protein 4, plasma), APOA4 (apolipoprotein A-IV), CDKN2A (cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (melanoma, p16, inhibits CDK4)), FGF2 (fibroblast growth factor 2 (basic)), EDNRB (endothelin receptor type B), ITGA2 (integrin, alpha 2 (CD49B, alpha 2 subunit of VLA-2 receptor)), CABIN1 (calcineurin binding protein 1), SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin), HMGB1 (high-mobility group box 1), HSP90B2P (heat shock protein 90 kDa beta (Grp94), member 2 (pseudogene)), CYP3A4 (cytochrome P450, family 3, subfamily A, polypeptide 4), GJA1 (gap junction protein, alpha 1, 43 kDa), CAV1 (caveolin 1, caveolae protein, 22 kDa), ESR2 (estrogen receptor 2 (ER beta)), LTA (lymphotoxin alpha (TNF superfamily, member 1)), GDF15 (growth differentiation factor 15), BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), CYP2D6 (cytochrome P450, family 2, subfamily D, polypeptide 6), NGF (nerve growth factor (beta polypeptide)), SP1 (Sp1 transcription factor), TGIF1 (TGFB-induced factor homeobox 1), SRC (v-src sarcoma (Schmidt-Ruppin A-2) viral oncogene homolog (avian)), EGF (epidermal growth factor (beta-urogastrone)), PIK3CG (phosphoinositide-3-kinase, catalytic, gamma polypeptide), HLA-A (major histocompatibility complex, class I, A), KCNQ1 (potassium voltage-gated channel, KQT-like subfamily, member 1), CNR1 (cannabinoid receptor 1 (brain)), FBN1 (fibrillin 1), CHKA (choline kinase alpha), BEST1 (bestrophin 1), APP (amyloid beta (A4) precursor protein), CTNNB1 (catenin (cadherin-associated protein), beta 1, 88 kDa), IL2 (interleukin 2), CD36 (CD36 molecule (thrombospondin receptor)), PRKAB1 (protein kinase, AMP-activated, beta 1 non-catalytic subunit), TPO (thyroid peroxidase), ALDH7A1 (aldehyde dehydrogenase 7 family, member A1), CX3CR1 (chemokine (C-X3-C motif) receptor 1), TH (tyrosine hydroxylase), F9 (coagulation factor IX), GH1 (growth hormone 1), TF (transferrin), HFE (hemochromatosis), IL17A (interleukin 17A), PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog), GSTM1 (glutathione S-transferase mu 1), DMD (dystrophin), GATA4 (GATA binding protein 4), F13A1 (coagulation factor XIII, A1 polypeptide), TTR (transthyretin), FABP4 (fatty acid binding protein 4, adipocyte), PON3 (paraoxonase 3), APOC1 (apolipoprotein C-I), INSR (insulin receptor), TNFRSF1B (tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, member 1B), HTR2A (5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) receptor 2A), CSF3 (colony stimulating factor 3 (granulocyte)), CYP2C9 (cytochrome P450, family 2, subfamily C, polypeptide 9), TXN (thioredoxin), CYP11B2 (cytochrome P450, family 11, subfamily B, polypeptide 2), PTH (parathyroid hormone), CSF2 (colony stimulating factor 2 (granulocyte-macrophage)), KDR (kinase insert domain receptor (a type III receptor tyrosine kinase)), PLA2G2A (phospholipase A2, group IIA (platelets, synovial fluid)), B2M (beta-2-microglobulin), THBS1 (thrombospondin 1), GCG (glucagon), RHOA (ras homolog gene family, member A), ALDH2 (aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 family (mitochondrial)), TCF7L2 (transcription factor 7-like 2 (T-cell specific, HMG-box)), BDKRB2 (bradykinin receptor B2), NFE2L2 (nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2), NOTCH1 (Notch homolog 1, translocation-associated (Drosophila)), UGT1A1 (UDP glucuronosyltransferase 1 family, polypeptide A1), IFNA1 (interferon, alpha 1), PPARD (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta), SIRT1 (sirtuin (silent mating type information regulation 2 homolog) 1 (S. cerevisiae)), GNRH1 (gonadotropin-releasing hormone 1 (luteinizing-releasing hormone)), PAPPA (pregnancy-associated plasma protein A, pappalysin 1), ARR3 (arrestin 3, retinal (X-arrestin)), NPPC (natriuretic peptide precursor C), AHSP (alpha hemoglobin stabilizing protein), PTK2 (PTK2 protein tyrosine kinase 2), IL13 (interleukin 13), MTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin (serine/threonine kinase)), ITGB2 (integrin, beta 2 (complement component 3 receptor 3 and 4 subunit)), GSTT1 (glutathione S-transferase theta 1), IL6ST (interleukin 6 signal transducer (gp130, oncostatin M receptor)), CPB2 (carboxypeptidase B2 (plasma)), CYP1A2 (cytochrome P450, family 1, subfamily A, polypeptide 2), HNF4A (hepatocyte nuclear factor 4, alpha), SLC6A4 (solute carrier family 6 (neurotransmitter transporter, serotonin), member 4), PLA2G6 (phospholipase A2, group VI (cytosolic, calcium-independent)), TNFSF11 (tumor necrosis factor (ligand) superfamily, member 11), SLC8A1 (solute carrier family 8 (sodium/calcium exchanger), member 1), F2RL1 (coagulation factor II (thrombin) receptor-like 1), AKR1A1 (aldo-keto reductase family 1, member A1 (aldehyde reductase)), ALDH9A1 (aldehyde dehydrogenase 9 family, member A1), BGLAP (bone gamma-carboxyglutamate (gla) protein), MTTP (microsomal triglyceride transfer protein), MTRR (5-methyltetrahydrofolate-homocysteine methyltransferase reductase), SULT1A3 (sulfotransferase family, cytosolic, 1A, phenol-preferring, member 3), RAGE (renal tumor antigen), C4B (complement component 4B (Chido blood group), P2RY12 (purinergic receptor P2Y, G-protein coupled, 12), RNLS (renalase, FAD-dependent amine oxidase), CREB1 (cAMP responsive element binding protein 1), POMC (proopiomelanocortin), RAC1 (ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (rho family, small GTP binding protein Rac1)), LMNA (lamin NC), CD59 (CD59 molecule, complement regulatory protein), SCNSA (sodium channel, voltage-gated, type V, alpha subunit), CYP1B1 (cytochrome P450, family 1, subfamily B, polypeptide 1), MIF (macrophage migration inhibitory factor (glycosylation-inhibiting factor)), MMP13 (matrix metallopeptidase 13 (collagenase 3)), TIMP2 (TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 2), CYP19A1 (cytochrome P450, family 19, subfamily A, polypeptide 1), CYP21A2 (cytochrome P450, family 21, subfamily A, polypeptide 2), PTPN22 (protein tyrosine phosphatase, non-receptor type 22 (lymphoid)), MYH14 (myosin, heavy chain 14, non-muscle), MBL2 (mannose-binding lectin (protein C) 2, soluble (opsonic defect)), SELPLG (selectin P ligand), AOC3 (amine oxidase, copper containing 3 (vascular adhesion protein 1)), CTSL1 (cathepsin L1), PCNA (proliferating cell nuclear antigen), IGF2 (insulin-like growth factor 2 (somatomedin A)), ITGB1 (integrin, beta 1 (fibronectin receptor, beta polypeptide, antigen CD29 includes MDF2, MSK12)), CAST (calpastatin), CXCL12 (chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 12 (stromal cell-derived factor 1)), IGHE (immunoglobulin heavy constant epsilon), KCNE1 (potassium voltage-gated channel, Isk-related family, member 1), TFRC (transferrin receptor (p90, CD71)), COL1A1 (collagen, type I, alpha 1), COL1A2 (collagen, type I, alpha 2), IL2RB (interleukin 2 receptor, beta), PLA2G10 (phospholipase A2, group X), ANGPT2 (angiopoietin 2), PROCR (protein C receptor, endothelial (EPCR)), NOX4 (NADPH oxidase 4), HAMP (hepcidin antimicrobial peptide), PTPN11 (protein tyrosine phosphatase, non-receptor type 11), SLC2A1 (solute carrier family 2 (facilitated glucose transporter), member 1), IL2RA (interleukin 2 receptor, alpha), CCL5 (chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 5), IRF1 (interferon regulatory factor 1), CFLAR (CASP8 and FADD-like apoptosis regulator), CALCA (calcitonin-related polypeptide alpha), EIF4E (eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E), GSTP1 (glutathione S-transferase pi 1), JAK2 (Janus kinase 2), CYP3A5 (cytochrome P450, family 3, subfamily A, polypeptide 5), HSPG2 (heparan sulfate proteoglycan 2), CCL3 (chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 3), MYD88 (myeloid differentiation primary response gene (88)), VIP (vasoactive intestinal peptide), SOAT1 (sterol O-acyltransferase 1), ADRBK1 (adrenergic, beta, receptor kinase 1), NR4A2 (nuclear receptor subfamily 4, group A, member 2), MMP8 (matrix metallopeptidase 8 (neutrophil collagenase)), NPR2 (natriuretic peptide receptor B/guanylate cyclase B (atrionatriuretic peptide receptor B)), GCH1 (GTP cyclohydrolase 1), EPRS (glutamyl-prolyl-tRNA synthetase), PPARGC1A (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, coactivator 1 alpha), F12 (coagulation factor XII (Hageman factor)), PECAM1 (platelet/endothelial cell adhesion molecule), CCL4 (chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 4), SERPINA3 (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade A (alpha-1 antiproteinase, antitrypsin), member 3), CASR (calcium-sensing receptor), GJA5 (gap junction protein, alpha 5, 40 kDa), FABP2 (fatty acid binding protein 2, intestinal), TTF2 (transcription termination factor, RNA polymerase II), PROS1 (protein S (alpha)), CTF1 (cardiotrophin 1), SGCB (sarcoglycan, beta (43 kDa dystrophin-associated glycoprotein)), YME1L1 (YME1-like 1 (S. cerevisiae)), CAMP (cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide), ZC3H12A (zinc finger CCCH-type containing 12A), AKR1B1 (aldo-keto reductase family 1, member B1 (aldose reductase)), DES (desmin), MMP7 (matrix metallopeptidase 7 (matrilysin, uterine)), AHR (aryl hydrocarbon receptor), CSF1 (colony stimulating factor 1 (macrophage)), HDAC9 (histone deacetylase 9), CTGF (connective tissue growth factor), KCNMA1 (potassium large conductance calcium-activated channel, subfamily M, alpha member 1), UGT1A (UDP glucuronosyltransferase 1 family, polypeptide A complex locus), PRKCA (protein kinase C, alpha), COMT (catechol-.beta.-methyltransferase), S100B (S100 calcium binding protein B), EGR1 (early growth response 1), PRL (prolactin), IL15 (interleukin 15), DRD4 (dopamine receptor D4), CAMK2G (calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II gamma), SLC22A2 (solute carrier family 22 (organic cation transporter), member 2), CCL11 (chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 11), PGF (B321 placental growth factor), THPO (thrombopoietin), GP6 (glycoprotein VI (platelet)), TACR1 (tachykinin receptor 1), NTS (neurotensin), HNF lA (HNF1 homeobox A), SST (somatostatin), KCND1 (potassium voltage-gated channel, Shal-related subfamily, member 1), LOC646627 (phospholipase inhibitor), TBXAS1 (thromboxane A synthase 1 (platelet)), CYP2J2 (cytochrome P450, family 2, subfamily J, polypeptide 2), TBXA2R (thromboxane A2 receptor), ADH1C (alcohol dehydrogenase 1C (class I), gamma polypeptide), ALOX12 (arachidonate 12-lipoxygenase), AHSG (alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein), BHMT (betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase), GJA4 (gap junction protein, alpha 4, 37 kDa), SLC25A4 (solute carrier family 25 (mitochondrial carrier; adenine nucleotide translocator), member 4), ACLY (ATP citrate lyase), ALOXSAP (arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase-activating protein), NUMA1 (nuclear mitotic apparatus protein 1), CYP27B1 (cytochrome P450, family 27, subfamily B, polypeptide 1), CYSLTR2 (cysteinyl leukotriene receptor 2), SOD3 (superoxide dismutase 3, extracellular), LTC4S (leukotriene C4 synthase), UCN (urocortin), GHRL (ghrelin/obestatin prepropeptide), APOC2 (apolipoprotein C-II), CLEC4A (C-type lectin domain family 4, member A), KBTBD10 (kelch repeat and BTB (POZ) domain containing 10), TNC (tenascin C), TYMS (thymidylate synthetase), SHC1 (SHC (Src homology 2 domain containing) transforming protein 1), LRP1 (low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1), SOCS3 (suppressor of cytokine signaling 3), ADH1B (alcohol dehydrogenase 1B (class I), beta polypeptide), KLK3 (kallikrein-related peptidase 3), HSD11B1 (hydroxysteroid (11-beta) dehydrogenase 1), VKORC1 (vitamin K epoxide reductase complex, subunit 1), SERPINB2 (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade B (ovalbumin), member 2), TNS1 (tensin 1), RNF19A (ring finger protein 19A), EPOR (erythropoietin receptor), ITGAM (integrin, alpha M (complement component 3 receptor 3 subunit)), PITX2 (paired-like homeodomain 2), MAPK7 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 7), FCGR3A (Fc fragment of IgG, low affinity 111a, receptor (CD16a)), LEPR (leptin receptor), ENG (endoglin), GPX1 (glutathione peroxidase 1), GOT2 (glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase 2, mitochondrial (aspartate aminotransferase 2)), HRH1 (histamine receptor H1), NR112 (nuclear receptor subfamily 1, group I, member 2), CRH (corticotropin releasing hormone), HTR1A (5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) receptor 1A), VDAC1 (voltage-dependent anion channel 1), HPSE (heparanase), SFTPD (surfactant protein D), TAP2 (transporter 2, ATP-binding cassette, sub-family B (MDR/TAP)), RNF123 (ring finger protein 123), PTK2B (PTK2B protein tyrosine kinase 2 beta), NTRK2 (neurotrophic tyrosine kinase, receptor, type 2), IL6R (interleukin 6 receptor), ACHE (acetylcholinesterase (Yt blood group)), GLP1R (glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor), GHR (growth hormone receptor), GSR (glutathione reductase), NQO1 (NAD(P)H dehydrogenase, quinone 1), NR5A1 (nuclear receptor subfamily 5, group A, member 1), GJB2 (gap junction protein, beta 2, 26 kDa), SLC9A1 (solute carrier family 9 (sodium/hydrogen exchanger), member 1), MAOA (monoamine oxidase A), PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9), FCGR2A (Fc fragment of IgG, low affinity Ha, receptor (CD32)), SERPINF1 (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade F (alpha-2 antiplasmin, pigment epithelium derived factor), member 1), EDN3 (endothelin 3), DHFR (dihydrofolate reductase), GAS6 (growth arrest-specific 6), SMPD1 (sphingomyelin phosphodiesterase 1, acid lysosomal), UCP2 (uncoupling protein 2 (mitochondrial, proton carrier)), TFAP2A (transcription factor AP-2 alpha (activating enhancer binding protein 2 alpha)), C4BPA (complement component 4 binding protein, alpha), SERPINF2 (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade F (alpha-2 antiplasmin, pigment epithelium derived factor), member 2), TYMP (thymidine phosphorylase), ALPP (alkaline phosphatase, placental (Regan isozyme)), CXCR2 (chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 2), SLC39A3 (solute carrier family 39 (zinc transporter), member 3), ABCG2 (ATP-binding cassette, sub-family G (WHITE), member 2), ADA (adenosine deaminase), JAK3 (Janus kinase 3), HSPA1A (heat shock 70 kDa protein 1A), FASN (fatty acid synthase), FGF1 (fibroblast growth factor 1 (acidic)), F11 (coagulation factor XI), ATP7A (ATPase, Cu++ transporting, alpha polypeptide), CR1 (complement component (3b/4b) receptor 1 (Knops blood group)), GFAP (glial fibrillary acidic protein), ROCK1 (Rho-associated, coiled-coil containing protein kinase 1), MECP2 (methyl CpG binding protein 2 (Rett syndrome)), MYLK (myosin light chain kinase), BCHE (butyrylcholinesterase), LIPE (lipase, hormone-sensitive), PRDX5 (peroxiredoxin 5), ADORA1 (adenosine A1 receptor), WRN (Werner syndrome, RecQ helicase-like), CXCR3 (chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 3), CD81 (CD81 molecule), SMAD7 (SMAD family member 7), LAMC2 (laminin, gamma 2), MAP3K5 (mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 5), CHGA (chromogranin A (parathyroid secretory protein 1)), IAPP (islet amyloid polypeptide), RHO (rhodopsin), ENPP1 (ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1), PTHLH (parathyroid hormone-like hormone), NRG1 (neuregulin 1), VEGFC (vascular endothelial growth factor C), ENPEP (glutamyl aminopeptidase (aminopeptidase A)), CEBPB (CCAAT/enhancer binding protein (C/EBP), beta), NAGLU (N-acetylglucosaminidase, alpha-), F2RL3 (coagulation factor II (thrombin) receptor-like 3), CX3CL1 (chemokine (C-X3-C motif) ligand 1), BDKRB1 (bradykinin receptor B1), ADAMTS13 (ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif, 13), ELANE (elastase, neutrophil expressed), ENPP2 (ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 2), CISH (cytokine inducible SH2-containing protein), GAST (gastrin), MYOC (myocilin, trabecular meshwork inducible glucocorticoid response), ATP1A2 (ATPase, Na+/K+ transporting, alpha 2 polypeptide), NF1 (neurofibromin 1), GJB1 (gap junction protein, beta 1, 32 kDa), MEF2A (myocyte enhancer factor 2A), VCL (vinculin), BMPR2 (bone morphogenetic protein receptor, type II (serine/threonine kinase)), TUBB (tubulin, beta), CDC42 (cell division cycle 42 (GTP binding protein, 25 kDa)), KRT18 (keratin 18), HSF1 (heat shock transcription factor 1), MYB (v-myb myeloblastosis viral oncogene homolog (avian)), PRKAA2 (protein kinase, AMP-activated, alpha 2 catalytic subunit), ROCK2 (Rho-associated, coiled-coil containing protein kinase 2), TFPI (tissue factor pathway inhibitor (lipoprotein-associated coagulation inhibitor)), PRKG1 (protein kinase, cGMP-dependent, type I), BMP2 (bone morphogenetic protein 2), CTNND1 (catenin (cadherin-associated protein), delta 1), CTH (cystathionase (cystathionine gamma-lyase)), CTSS (cathepsin S), VAV2 (vav 2 guanine nucleotide exchange factor), NPY2R (neuropeptide Y receptor Y2), IGFBP2 (insulin-like growth factor binding protein 2, 36 kDa), CD28 (CD28 molecule), GSTA1 (glutathione S-transferase alpha 1), PPIA (peptidylprolyl isomerase A (cyclophilin A)), APOH (apolipoprotein H (beta-2-glycoprotein I)), S100A8 (S100 calcium binding protein A8), IL11 (interleukin 11), ALOX15 (arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase), FBLN1 (fibulin 1), NR1H3 (nuclear receptor subfamily 1, group H, member 3), SCD (stearoyl-CoA desaturase (delta-9-desaturase)), GIP (gastric inhibitory polypeptide), CHGB (chromogranin B (secretogranin 1)), PRKCB (protein kinase C, beta), SRD5A1 (steroid-5-alpha-reductase, alpha polypeptide 1 (3-oxo-5 alpha-steroid delta 4-dehydrogenase alpha 1)), HSD11B2 (hydroxysteroid (11-beta) dehydrogenase 2), CALCRL (calcitonin receptor-like), GALNT2 (UDP-N-acetyl-alpha-D-galactosamine:polypeptide N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 2 (GalNAc-T2)), ANGPTL4 (angiopoietin-like 4), KCNN4 (potassium intermediate/small conductance calcium-activated channel, subfamily N, member 4), PIK3C2A (phosphoinositide-3-kinase, class 2, alpha polypeptide), HBEGF (heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor), CYP7A1 (cytochrome P450, family 7, subfamily A, polypeptide 1), HLA-DRB5 (major histocompatibility complex, class II, DR beta 5), BNIP3 (BCL2/adenovirus E1B 19 kDa interacting protein 3), GCKR (glucokinase (hexokinase 4) regulator), S100A12 (S100 calcium binding protein A12), PADI4 (peptidyl arginine deiminase, type IV), HSPA14 (heat shock 70 kDa protein 14), CXCR1 (chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 1), H19 (H19, imprinted maternally expressed transcript (non-protein coding)), KRTAP19-3 (keratin associated protein 19-3), IDDM2 (insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus 2), RAC2 (ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 2 (rho family, small GTP binding protein Rac2)), RYR1 (ryanodine receptor 1 (skeletal)), CLOCK (clock homolog (mouse)), NGFR (nerve growth factor receptor (TNFR superfamily, member 16)), DBH (dopamine beta-hydroxylase (dopamine beta-monooxygenase)), CHRNA4 (cholinergic receptor, nicotinic, alpha 4), CACNA1C (calcium channel, voltage-dependent, L type, alpha 1C subunit), PRKAG2 (protein kinase, AMP-activated, gamma 2 non-catalytic subunit), CHAT (choline acetyltransferase), PTGDS (prostaglandin D2 synthase 21 kDa (brain)), NR1H2 (nuclear receptor subfamily 1, group H, member 2), TEK (TEK tyrosine kinase, endothelial), VEGFB (vascular endothelial growth factor B), MEF2C (myocyte enhancer factor 2C), MAPKAPK2 (mitogen-activated protein kinase-activated protein kinase 2), TNFRSF11A (tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, member 11a, NFKB activator), HSPA9 (heat shock 70 kDa protein 9 (mortalin)), CYSLTR1 (cysteinyl leukotriene receptor 1), MAT1A (methionine adenosyltransferase I, alpha), OPRL1 (opiate receptor-like 1), IMPA1 (inositol(myo)-1(or 4)-monophosphatase 1), CLCN2 (chloride channel 2), DLD (dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase), PSMA6 (proteasome (prosome, macropain) subunit, alpha type, 6), PSMB8 (proteasome (prosome, macropain) subunit, beta type, 8 (large multifunctional peptidase 7)), CHI3L1 (chitinase 3-like 1 (cartilage glycoprotein-39)), ALDH1B1 (aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 family, member B1), PARP2 (poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 2), STAR (steroidogenic acute regulatory protein), LBP (lipopolysaccharide binding protein), ABCC6 (ATP-binding cassette, sub-family C(CFTR/MRP), member 6), RGS2 (regulator of G-protein signaling 2, 24 kDa), EFNB2 (ephrin-B2), GJB6 (gap junction protein, beta 6, 30 kDa), APOA2 (apolipoprotein A-II), AMPD1 (adenosine monophosphate deaminase 1), DYSF (dysferlin, limb girdle muscular dystrophy 2B (autosomal recessive)), FDFT1 (farnesyl-diphosphate farnesyltransferase 1), EDN2 (endothelin 2), CCR6 (chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 6), GJB3 (gap junction protein, beta 3, 31 kDa), IL1RL1 (interleukin 1 receptor-like 1), ENTPD1 (ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase 1), BBS4 (Bardet-Biedl syndrome 4), CELSR2 (cadherin, EGF LAG seven-pass G-type receptor 2 (flamingo homolog, Drosophila)), F11R (F11 receptor), RAPGEF3 (Rap guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) 3), HYAL1 (hyaluronoglucosaminidase 1), ZNF259 (zinc finger protein 259), ATOX1 (ATX1 antioxidant protein 1 homolog (yeast)), ATF6 (activating transcription factor 6), KHK (ketohexokinase (fructokinase)), SAT1 (spermidine/spermine N1-acetyltransferase 1), GGH (gamma-glutamyl hydrolase (conjugase, folylpolygammaglutamyl hydrolase)), TIMP4 (TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 4), SLC4A4 (solute carrier family 4, sodium bicarbonate cotransporter, member 4), PDE2A (phosphodiesterase 2A, cGMP-stimulated), PDE3B (phosphodiesterase 3B, cGMP-inhibited), FADS1 (fatty acid desaturase 1), FADS2 (fatty acid desaturase 2), TMSB4X (thymosin beta 4, X-linked), TXNIP (thioredoxin interacting protein), LIMS1 (LIM and senescent cell antigen-like domains 1), RHOB (ras homolog gene family, member B), LY96 (lymphocyte antigen 96), FOXO1 (forkhead box O1), PNPLA2 (patatin-like phospholipase domain containing 2), TRH (thyrotropin-releasing hormone), GJC1 (gap junction protein, gamma 1, 45 kDa), SLC17A5 (solute carrier family 17 (anion/sugar transporter), member 5), FTO (fat mass and obesity associated), GJD2 (gap junction protein, delta 2, 36 kDa), PSRC1 (proline/serine-rich coiled-coil 1), CASP12 (caspase 12 (gene/pseudogene)), GPBAR1 (G protein-coupled bile acid receptor 1), PXK (PX domain containing serine/threonine kinase), IL33 (interleukin 33), TRIB1 (tribbles homolog 1 (Drosophila)), PBX4 (pre-B-cell leukemia homeobox 4), NUPR1 (nuclear protein, transcriptional regulator, 1), 15-Sep (15 kDa selenoprotein), CILP2 (cartilage intermediate layer protein 2), TERC (telomerase RNA component), GGT2 (gamma-glutamyltransferase 2), MT-CO1 (mitochondrially encoded cytochrome c oxidase I), and UOX (urate oxidase, pseudogene). Any of these sequences, may be a target for the CRISPR-Cas system, e.g., to address mutation.

In an additional embodiment, the chromosomal sequence may further be selected from Pon1 (paraoxonase 1), LDLR (LDL receptor), ApoE (Apolipoprotein E), Apo B-100 (Apolipoprotein B-100), ApoA (Apolipoprotein(a)), ApoA1 (Apolipoprotein A1), CBS (Cystathione B-synthase), Glycoprotein IIb/IIb, MTHRF (5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (NADPH), and combinations thereof. In one iteration, the chromosomal sequences and proteins encoded by chromosomal sequences involved in cardiovascular disease may be chosen from Cacna1C, Sod1, Pten, Ppar(alpha), Apo E, Leptin, and combinations thereof as target(s) for the CRISPR-Cas system.

Secretase Disorders

US Patent Publication No. 20110023146, describes use of zinc finger nucleases to genetically modify cells, animals and proteins associated with secretase-associated disorders. Secretases are essential for processing pre-proteins into their biologically active forms. Defects in various components of the secretase pathways contribute to many disorders, particularly those with hallmark amyloidogenesis or amyloid plaques, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD).

A secretase disorder and the proteins associated with these disorders are a diverse set of proteins that effect susceptibility for numerous disorders, the presence of the disorder, the severity of the disorder, or any combination thereof. The present disclosure comprises editing of any chromosomal sequences that encode proteins associated with a secretase disorder. The proteins associated with a secretase disorder are typically selected based on an experimental association of the secretase-related proteins with the development of a secretase disorder. For example, the production rate or circulating concentration of a protein associated with a secretase disorder may be elevated or depressed in a population with a secretase disorder relative to a population without a secretase disorder. Differences in protein levels may be assessed using proteomic techniques including but not limited to Western blot, immunohistochemical staining, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and mass spectrometry. Alternatively, the protein associated with a secretase disorder may be identified by obtaining gene expression profiles of the genes encoding the proteins using genomic techniques including but not limited to DNA microarray analysis, serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE), and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR).

By way of non-limiting example, proteins associated with a secretase disorder include PSENEN (presenilin enhancer 2 homolog (C. elegans)), CTSB (cathepsin B), PSEN1 (presenilin 1), APP (amyloid beta (A4) precursor protein), APH1B (anterior pharynx defective 1 homolog B (C. elegans)), PSEN2 (presenilin 2 (Alzheimer disease 4)), BACE1 (beta-site APP-cleaving enzyme 1), ITM2B (integral membrane protein 2B), CTSD (cathepsin D), NOTCH1 (Notch homolog 1, translocation-associated (Drosophila)), TNF (tumor necrosis factor (TNF superfamily, member 2)), INS (insulin), DYT10 (dystonia 10), ADAM17 (ADAM metallopeptidase domain 17), APOE (apolipoprotein E), ACE (angiotensin I converting enzyme (peptidyl-dipeptidase A) 1), STN (statin), TP53 (tumor protein p53), IL6 (interleukin 6 (interferon, beta 2)), NGFR (nerve growth factor receptor (TNFR superfamily, member 16)), IL1B (interleukin 1, beta), ACHE (acetylcholinesterase (Yt blood group)), CTNNB1 (catenin (cadherin-associated protein), beta 1, 88 kDa), IGF1 (insulin-like growth factor 1 (somatomedin C)), IFNG (interferon, gamma), NRG1 (neuregulin 1), CASP3 (caspase 3, apoptosis-related cysteine peptidase), MAPK1 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 1), CDH1 (cadherin 1, type 1, E-cadherin (epithelial)), APBB1 (amyloid beta (A4) precursor protein-binding, family B, member 1 (Fe65)), HMGCR (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-Coenzyme A reductase), CREB1 (cAMP responsive element binding protein 1), PTGS2 (prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (prostaglandin G/H synthase and cyclooxygenase)), HES1 (hairy and enhancer of split 1, (Drosophila)), CAT (catalase), TGFB1 (transforming growth factor, beta 1), ENO2 (enolase 2 (gamma, neuronal)), ERBB4 (v-erb-a erythroblastic leukemia viral oncogene homolog 4 (avian)), TRAPPC10 (trafficking protein particle complex 10), MAOB (monoamine oxidase B), NGF (nerve growth factor (beta polypeptide)), MMP12 (matrix metallopeptidase 12 (macrophage elastase)), JAG1 (jagged 1 (Alagille syndrome)), CD40LG (CD40 ligand), PPARG (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma), FGF2 (fibroblast growth factor 2 (basic)), IL3 (interleukin 3 (colony-stimulating factor, multiple)), LRP1 (low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1), NOTCH4 (Notch homolog 4 (Drosophila)), MAPK8 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 8), PREP (prolyl endopeptidase), NOTCH3 (Notch homolog 3 (Drosophila)), PRNP (prion protein), CTSG (cathepsin G), EGF (epidermal growth factor (beta-urogastrone)), REN (renin), CD44 (CD44 molecule (Indian blood group)), SELP (selectin P (granule membrane protein 140 kDa, antigen CD62)), GHR (growth hormone receptor), ADCYAP1 (adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide 1 (pituitary)), INSR (insulin receptor), GFAP (glial fibrillary acidic protein), MMP3 (matrix metallopeptidase 3 (stromelysin 1, progelatinase)), MAPK10 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 10), SP1 (Sp1 transcription factor), MYC (v-myc myelocytomatosis viral oncogene homolog (avian)), CTSE (cathepsin E), PPARA (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha), JUN (jun oncogene), TIMP1 (TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 1), IL5 (interleukin 5 (colony-stimulating factor, eosinophil)), ILIA (interleukin 1, alpha), MMP9 (matrix metallopeptidase 9 (gelatinase B, 92 kDa gelatinase, 92 kDa type IV collagenase)), HTR4 (5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) receptor 4), HSPG2 (heparan sulfate proteoglycan 2), KRAS (v-Ki-ras2 Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog), CYCS (cytochrome c, somatic), SMG1 (SMG1 homolog, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-related kinase (C. elegans)), IL1R1 (interleukin 1 receptor, type I), PROK1 (prokineticin 1), MAPK3 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 3), NTRK1 (neurotrophic tyrosine kinase, receptor, type 1), IL13 (interleukin 13), MME (membrane metallo-endopeptidase), TKT (transketolase), CXCR2 (chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 2), IGF1R (insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor), RARA (retinoic acid receptor, alpha), CREBBP (CREB binding protein), PTGS1 (prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 1 (prostaglandin G/H synthase and cyclooxygenase)), GALT (galactose-1-phosphate uridylyltransferase), CHRM1 (cholinergic receptor, muscarinic 1), ATXN1 (ataxin 1), PAWR (PRKC, apoptosis, WT1, regulator), NOTCH2 (Notch homolog 2 (Drosophila)), M6PR (mannose-6-phosphate receptor (cation dependent)), CYP46A1 (cytochrome P450, family 46, subfamily A, polypeptide 1), CSNK1 D (casein kinase 1, delta), MAPK14 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 14), PRG2 (proteoglycan 2, bone marrow (natural killer cell activator, eosinophil granule major basic protein)), PRKCA (protein kinase C, alpha), L1 CAM (L1 cell adhesion molecule), CD40 (CD40 molecule, TNF receptor superfamily member 5), NR112 (nuclear receptor subfamily 1, group I, member 2), JAG2 (jagged 2), CTNND1 (catenin (cadherin-associated protein), delta 1), CDH2 (cadherin 2, type 1, N-cadherin (neuronal)), CMA1 (chymase 1, mast cell), SORT1 (sortilin 1), DLK1 (delta-like 1 homolog (Drosophila)), THEM4 (thioesterase superfamily member 4), JUP (junction plakoglobin), CD46 (CD46 molecule, complement regulatory protein), CCL11 (chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 11), CAV3 (caveolin 3), RNASE3 (ribonuclease, RNase A family, 3 (eosinophil cationic protein)), HSPA8 (heat shock 70 kDa protein 8), CASP9 (caspase 9, apoptosis-related cysteine peptidase), CYP3A4 (cytochrome P450, family 3, subfamily A, polypeptide 4), CCR3 (chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 3), TFAP2A (transcription factor AP-2 alpha (activating enhancer binding protein 2 alpha)), SCP2 (sterol carrier protein 2), CDK4 (cyclin-dependent kinase 4), HIF1A (hypoxia inducible factor 1, alpha subunit (basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor)), TCF7L2 (transcription factor 7-like 2 (T-cell specific, HMG-box)), IL1R2 (interleukin 1 receptor, type II), B3GALTL (beta 1,3-galactosyltransferase-like), MDM2 (Mdm2 p53 binding protein homolog (mouse)), RELA (v-rel reticuloendotheliosis viral oncogene homolog A (avian)), CASP7 (caspase 7, apoptosis-related cysteine peptidase), IDE (insulin-degrading enzyme), FABP4 (fatty acid binding protein 4, adipocyte), CASK (calcium/calmodulin-dependent serine protein kinase (MAGUK family)), ADCYAP1R1 (adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide 1 (pituitary) receptor type I), ATF4 (activating transcription factor 4 (tax-responsive enhancer element B67)), PDGFA (platelet-derived growth factor alpha polypeptide), C21 or f33 (chromosome 21 open reading frame 33), SCG5 (secretogranin V (7B2 protein)), RNF123 (ring finger protein 123), NFKB1 (nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells 1), ERBB2 (v-erb-b2 erythroblastic leukemia viral oncogene homolog 2, neuro/glioblastoma derived oncogene homolog (avian)), CAV1 (caveolin 1, caveolae protein, 22 kDa), MMP7 (matrix metallopeptidase 7 (matrilysin, uterine)), TGFA (transforming growth factor, alpha), RXRA (retinoid X receptor, alpha), STX1A (syntaxin 1A (brain)), PSMC4 (proteasome (prosome, macropain) 26S subunit, ATPase, 4), P2RY2 (purinergic receptor P2Y, G-protein coupled, 2), TNFRSF21 (tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, member 21), DLG1 (discs, large homolog 1 (Drosophila)), NUMBL (numb homolog (Drosophila)-like), SPN (sialophorin), PLSCR1 (phospholipid scramblase 1), UBQLN2 (ubiquilin 2), UBQLN1 (ubiquilin 1), PCSK7 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 7), SPON1 (spondin 1, extracellular matrix protein), SILV (silver homolog (mouse)), QPCT (glutaminyl-peptide cyclotransferase), HESS (hairy and enhancer of split 5 (Drosophila)), GCC1 (GRIP and coiled-coil domain containing 1), and any combination thereof.

The genetically modified animal or cell may comprise 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more disrupted chromosomal sequences encoding a protein associated with a secretase disorder and zero, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more chromosomally integrated sequences encoding a disrupted protein associated with a secretase disorder.

Targeting the Liver or Liver Cells; Hemophilia

Targeting liver cells is provided. This may be in vitro or in vivo. Hepatocytes are preferred. Delivery of the CRISPR protein may be via viral vectors, especially AAV (and in particular AAV2/6) vectors. These may be administered by intravenous injection.

A preferred target for liver, whether in vitro or in vivo, is the albumin gene. This is a so-called ‘safe harbor” as albumin is expressed at very high levels and so some reduction in the production of albumin following successful gene editing is tolerated. It is also preferred as the high levels of expression seen from the albumin promoter/enhancer allows for useful levels of correct or transgene production (from the inserted donor template) to be achieved even if only a small fraction of hepatocytes are edited.

Intron 1 of albumin has been shown by Wechsler et al. (reported at the 57th Annual Meeting and Exposition of the American Society of Hematology—abstract available online at https://ash.confex.com/ash/2015/webprogram/Paper86495.html and presented on 6 Dec. 2015) to be a suitable target site. Their work used Zn Fingers to cut the DNA at this target site, and suitable guide sequences can be generated to guide cleavage at the same site by a CRISPR protein.

The use of targets within highly-expressed genes (genes with highly active enhancers/promoters) such as albumin may also allow a promoterless donor template to be used, as reported by Wechsler et al. and this is also broadly applicable outside liver targeting. Other examples of highly-expressed genes are known.

Liver-Associated Blood Disorders, Esp. Hemophilia and in Particular Hemophilia B

Successful gene editing of hepatocytes has been achieved in mice (both in vitro and in vivo) and in non-human primates (in vivo), showing that treatment of blood disorders through gene editing/genome engineering in hepatocytes is feasible. In particular, expression of the human F9 (hF9) gene in hepatocytes has been shown in non-human primates indicating a treatment for Hemophilia B in humans.

Wechsler et al. reported at the 57th Annual Meeting and Exposition of the American Society of Hematology (abstract presented 6 Dec. 2015 and available online at https://ash.confex.com/ash/2015/webprogram/Paper86495.html) that they has successfully expressed human F9 (hF9) from hepatocytes in non-human primates through in vivo gene editing. This was achieved using 1) two zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs) targeting intron 1 of the albumin locus, and 2) a human F9 donor template construct. The ZFNs and donor template were encoded on separate hepatotropic adeno-associated virus serotype 2/6 (AAV2/6) vectors injected intravenously, resulting in targeted insertion of a corrected copy of the hF9 gene into the albumin locus in a proportion of liver hepatocytes.

The albumin locus was selected as a “safe harbor” as production of this most abundant plasma protein exceeds 10 g/day, and moderate reductions in those levels are well-tolerated. Genome edited hepatocytes produced normal hFIX (hF9) in therapeutic quantities, rather than albumin, driven by the highly active albumin enhancer/promoter. Targeted integration of the hF9 transgene at the albumin locus and splicing of this gene into the albumin transcript was shown.

Mice studies: C57BL/6 mice were administered vehicle (n=20) or AAV2/6 vectors (n=25) encoding mouse surrogate reagents at 1.0×1013 vector genome (vg)/kg via tail vein injection. ELISA analysis of plasma hFIX in the treated mice showed peak levels of 50-1053 ng/mL that were sustained for the duration of the 6-month study. Analysis of FIX activity from mouse plasma confirmed bioactivity commensurate with expression levels.

Non-human primate (NHP) studies: a single intravenous co-infusion of AAV2/6 vectors encoding the NHP targeted albumin-specific ZFNs and a human F9 donor at 1.2×1013 vg/kg (n=5/group) resulted in >50 ng/mL (>1% of normal) in this large animal model. The use of higher AAV2/6 doses (up to 1.5×1014 vg/kg) yielded plasma hFIX levels up to 1000 ng/ml (or 20% of normal) in several animals and up to 2000 ng/ml (or 50% of normal) in a single animal, for the duration of the study (3 months).

The treatment was well tolerated in mice and NHPs, with no significant toxicological findings related to AAV2/6 ZFN+donor treatment in either species at therapeutic doses. Sangamo (CA, USA) has since applied to the FDA, and been granted, permission to conduct the world's first human clinical trial for an in vivo genome editing application. This follows on the back of the EMEA's approval of the Glybera gene therapy treatment of lipoprotein lipase deficiency.

Accordingly, it is preferred, in some embodiments, that any or all of the following are used:

-   -   AAV (especially AAV2/6) vectors, preferably administered by         intravenous injection;     -   Albumin as target for gene editing/insertion of         transgene/template—especially at intron 1 of albumin;     -   human F9 donor template; and/or     -   promoterless donor template.

Hemophilia B

Accordingly, in some embodiments, it is preferred that the present invention is used to treat Hemophilia B. As such it is preferred that a template is provided and that this is the human F9 gene. It will be appreciated that the hF9 template comprises the wt or ‘correct’ version of hF9 so that the treatment is effective.

In an alternative embodiment, the hemophilia B version of F9 may be delivered so as to create a model organism, cell or cell line (for example a murine or non-human primate model organism, cell or cell line), the model organism, cell or cell line having or carrying the Hemophilia B phenotype, i.e. an inability to produce wt F9.

Hemophilia A

In some embodiments, the F9 (factor IX) gene may be replaced by the F8 (factor VIII) gene described above, leading to treatment of Hemophilia A (through provision of a correct F8 gene) and/or creation of a Hemophilia A model organism, cell or cell line (through provision of an incorrect, Hemophilia A version of the F8 gene).

Hemophilia C

In some embodiments, the F9 (factor IX) gene may be replaced by the F11 (factor XI) gene described above, leading to treatment of Hemophilia C (through provision of a correct F11 gene) and/or creation of a Hemophilia C model organism, cell or cell line (through provision of an incorrect, Hemophilia C version of the F11 gene).

Other Conditions

Cystic Fibrosis (CF)

In some embodiments, the treatment, prophylaxis or diagnosis of cystic fibrosis is provided. The target is preferably the SCNN1A or the CFTR gene. This is described in WO2015157070, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

Cancer and CAR-T

In some embodiments, the treatment, prophylaxis or diagnosis of cystic fibrosis is provided. The target is preferably one or more of the FAS, BID, CTLA4, PDCD1, CBLB, PTPN6, TRAC or TRBC genes. The cancer may be one or more of lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), B cell acute lymphocytic leukemia (B-ALL), acute lymphoblastic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), diffuse large cell lymphoma (DLCL), multiple myeloma, renal cell carcinoma (RCC), neuroblastoma, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, melanoma, sarcoma, prostate cancer, lung cancer, esophageal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, pancreatic cancer, astrocytoma, mesothelioma, head and neck cancer, and medulloblastoma. This may be implemented with engineered chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell. This is described in WO2015161276, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2

In some embodiments, the treatment, prophylaxis or diagnosis of HSV-1 (Herpes Simplex Virus 1) is provided. The target is preferably the UL19, UL30, UL48 or UL50 gene in HSV-1. This is described in WO2015153789, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

In other embodiments, the treatment, prophylaxis or diagnosis of HSV-2 (Herpes Simplex Virus 2) is provided. The target is preferably the UL19, UL30, UL48 or UL50 gene in HSV-2. This is described in WO2015153791, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

The present invention may be further illustrated and extended based on aspect of CFISPR-Cas9 development and use as set forth in the following articles hereby incorporated herein by reference and particularly as relates to delivery of a CRISPR protein complex and uses of an RNA guided endonuclease in cells and organisms:

-   -   Multiplex genome engineering using CRISPR/Cas systems. Cong, L.,         Ran, F. A., Cox, D., Lin, S., Barretto, R., Habib, N., Hsu, P.         D., Wu, X., Jiang, W., Marraffini, L. A., & Zhang, F. Science         February 15; 339(6121):819-23 (2013);     -   RNA-guided editing of bacterial genomes using CRISPR-Cas         systems. Jiang W., Bikard D., Cox D., Zhang F, Marraffini L A.         Nat Biotechnol March; 31(3):233-9 (2013);     -   One-Step Generation of Mice Carrying Mutations in Multiple Genes         by CRISPR/Cas-Mediated Genome Engineering. Wang H., Yang H.,         Shivalila C S., Dawlaty M M., Cheng A W., Zhang F., Jaenisch R.         Cell May 9; 153(4):910-8 (2013);     -   Optical control of mammalian endogenous transcription and         epigenetic states. Konermann S, Brigham M D, Trevino A E, Hsu P         D, Heidenreich M, Cong L, Platt R J, Scott D A, Church G M,         Zhang F. Nature. August 22; 500(7463):472-6. doi:         10.1038/Nature12466. Epub 2013 Aug. 23 (2013);     -   Double Nicking by RNA-Guided CRISPR Cas9 for Enhanced Genome         Editing Specificity. Ran, F A., Hsu, P D., Lin, C Y.,         Gootenberg, J S., Konermann, S., Trevino, A E., Scott, D A.,         Inoue, A., Matoba, S., Zhang, Y., & Zhang, F. Cell August 28.         pii: S0092-8674(13)01015-5 (2013-A);     -   DNA targeting specificity of RNA-guided Cas9 nucleases. Hsu, P.,         Scott, D., Weinstein, J., Ran, F A., Konermann, S., Agarwala,         V., Li, Y., Fine, E., Wu, X., Shalem, O., Cradick, T J.,         Marraffini, L A., Bao, G., & Zhang, F. Nat Biotechnol         doi:10.1038/nbt.2647 (2013);     -   Genome engineering using the CRISPR-Cas9 system. Ran, F A., Hsu,         P D., Wright, J., Agarwala, V., Scott, D A., Zhang, F. Nature         Protocols November; 8(11):2281-308 (2013-B);     -   Genome-Scale CRISPR-Cas9 Knockout Screening in Human Cells.         Shalem, O., Sanjana, N E., Hartenian, E., Shi, X., Scott, D A.,         Mikkelson, T., Heckl, D., Ebert, B L., Root, D E., Doench, J G.,         Zhang, F. Science December 12. (2013). [Epub ahead of print];     -   Crystal structure of cas9 in complex with guide RNA and target         DNA. Nishimasu, H., Ran, F A., Hsu, P D., Konermann, S.,         Shehata, S I., Dohmae, N., Ishitani, R., Zhang, F., Nureki, O.         Cell February 27, 156(5):935-49 (2014);     -   Genome-wide binding of the CRISPR endonuclease Cas9 in mammalian         cells. Wu X., Scott D A., Kriz A J., Chiu A C., Hsu P D., Dadon         D B., Cheng A W., Trevino A E., Konermann S., Chen S., Jaenisch         R., Zhang F., Sharp P A. Nat Biotechnol. April 20. doi:         10.1038/nbt.2889 (2014);     -   CRISPR-Cas9 Knockin Mice for Genome Editing and Cancer Modeling.         Platt R J, Chen S, Zhou Y, Yim M J, Swiech L, Kempton H R,         Dahlman J E, Parnas O, Eisenhaure™, Jovanovic M, Graham D B,         Jhunjhunwala S, Heidenreich M, Xavier R J, Langer R, Anderson D         G, Hacohen N, Regev A, Feng G, Sharp P A, Zhang F. Cell 159(2):         440-455 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2014.09.014(2014);     -   Development and Applications of CRISPR-Cas9 for Genome         Engineering, Hsu P D, Lander E S, Zhang F., Cell. June 5;         157(6):1262-78 (2014).     -   Genetic screens in human cells using the CRISPR/Cas9 system,         Wang T, Wei J J, Sabatini D M, Lander E S., Science. January 3;         343(6166): 80-84. doi:10.1126/science.1246981 (2014);     -   Rational design of highly active sgRNAs for CRISPR-Cas9-mediated         gene inactivation, Doench J G, Hartenian E, Graham D B, Tothova         Z, Hegde M, Smith I, Sullender M, Ebert B L, Xavier R J, Root D         E., (published online 3 Sep. 2014) Nat Biotechnol. December;         32(12):1262-7 (2014);     -   In vivo interrogation of gene function in the mammalian brain         using CRISPR-Cas9, Swiech L, Heidenreich M, Banerjee A, Habib N,         Li Y, Trombetta J, Sur M, Zhang F., (published online 19         Oct. 2014) Nat Biotechnol. January; 33(1):102-6 (2015);     -   Genome-scale transcriptional activation by an engineered         CRISPR-Cas9 complex, Konermann S, Brigham M D, Trevino A E,         Joung J, Abudayyeh O O, Barcena C, Hsu P D, Habib N, Gootenberg         J S, Nishimasu H, Nureki O, Zhang F., Nature. January 29;         517(7536):583-8 (2015).     -   A split-Cas9 architecture for inducible genome editing and         transcription modulation, Zetsche B, Volz S E, Zhang F.,         (published online 2 Feb. 2015) Nat Biotechnol. February;         33(2):139-42 (2015);     -   Genome-wide CRISPR Screen in a Mouse Model of Tumor Growth and         Metastasis, Chen S, Sanjana N E, Zheng K, Shalem O, Lee K, Shi         X, Scott D A, Song J, Pan J Q, Weissleder R, Lee H, Zhang F,         Sharp P A. Cell 160, 1246-1260, Mar. 12, 2015 (multiplex screen         in mouse), and     -   In vivo genome editing using Staphylococcus aureus Cas9, Ran F         A, Cong L, Yan W X, Scott D A, Gootenberg J S, Kriz A J, Zetsche         B, Shalem O, Wu X, Makarova K S, Koonin E V, Sharp P A, Zhang         F., (published online 1 Apr. 2015), Nature. April 9; 520(7546):         186-91 (2015).     -   Shalem et al., “High-throughput functional genomics using         CRISPR-Cas9,” Nature Reviews Genetics 16, 299-311 (May 2015).     -   Xu et al., “Sequence determinants of improved CRISPR sgRNA         design,” Genome Research 25, 1147-1157 (August 2015).     -   Parnas et al., “A Genome-wide CRISPR Screen in Primary Immune         Cells to Dissect Regulatory Networks,” Cell 162, 675-686 (Jul.         30, 2015).     -   Ramanan et al., CRISPR/Cas9 cleavage of viral DNA efficiently         suppresses hepatitis B virus,” Scientific Reports 5:10833. doi:         10.1038/srep10833 (Jun. 2, 2015)     -   Nishimasu et al., Crystal Structure of Staphylococcus aureus         Cas9,” Cell 162, 1113-1126 (Aug. 27, 2015)     -   BCL11A enhancer dissection by Cas9-mediated in situ saturating         mutagenesis, Canver et al., Nature 527(7577):192-7 (Nov.         12, 2015) doi: 10.1038/nature15521. Epub 2015 Sep. 16.     -   Cpf1 Is a Single RNA-Guided Endonuclease of a Class 2 CRISPR-Cas         System, Zetsche et al., Cell 163, 759-71 (Sep. 25, 2015).     -   Discovery and Functional Characterization of Diverse Class 2         CRISPR-Cas Systems, Shmakov et al., Molecular Cell, 60(3),         385-397 doi: 10.1016/j.molcel.2015.10.008 Epub Oct. 22, 2015.     -   Rationally engineered Cas9 nucleases with improved specificity,         Slaymaker et al., Science 2016 Jan. 1 351(6268): 84-88 doi:         10.1126/science.aad5227. Epub 2015 Dec. 1. [Epub ahead of print]         each of which is incorporated herein by reference, may be         considered in the practice of the instant invention, and         discussed briefly below:     -   Cong et al. engineered type II CRISPR-Cas systems for use in         eukaryotic cells based on both Streptococcus thermophilus Cas9         and also Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 and demonstrated that Cas9         nucleases can be directed by short RNAs to induce precise         cleavage of DNA in human and mouse cells. Their study further         showed that Cas9 as converted into a nicking enzyme can be used         to facilitate homology-directed repair in eukaryotic cells with         minimal mutagenic activity. Additionally, their study         demonstrated that multiple guide sequences can be encoded into a         single CRISPR array to enable simultaneous editing of several at         endogenous genomic loci sites within the mammalian genome,         demonstrating easy programmability and wide applicability of the         RNA-guided nuclease technology. This ability to use RNA to         program sequence specific DNA cleavage in cells defined a new         class of genome engineering tools. These studies further showed         that other CRISPR loci are likely to be transplantable into         mammalian cells and can also mediate mammalian genome cleavage.         Importantly, it can be envisaged that several aspects of the         CRISPR-Cas system can be further improved to increase its         efficiency and versatility.     -   Jiang et al. used the clustered, regularly interspaced, short         palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated Cas9 endonuclease         complexed with dual-RNAs to introduce precise mutations in the         genomes of Streptococcus pneumoniae and Escherichia coli. The         approach relied on dual-RNA:Cas9-directed cleavage at the         targeted genomic site to kill unmutated cells and circumvents         the need for selectable markers or counter-selection systems.         The study reported reprogramming dual-RNA:Cas9 specificity by         changing the sequence of short CRISPR RNA (crRNA) to make         single- and multinucleotide changes carried on editing         templates. The study showed that simultaneous use of two crRNAs         enabled multiplex mutagenesis. Furthermore, when the approach         was used in combination with recombineering, in S. pneumoniae,         nearly 100% of cells that were recovered using the described         approach contained the desired mutation, and in E. coli, 65%         that were recovered contained the mutation.     -   Wang et al. (2013) used the CRISPR/Cas system for the one-step         generation of mice carrying mutations in multiple genes which         were traditionally generated in multiple steps by sequential         recombination in embryonic stem cells and/or time-consuming         intercrossing of mice with a single mutation. The CRISPR/Cas         system will greatly accelerate the in vivo study of functionally         redundant genes and of epistatic gene interactions.     -   Konermann et al. (2013) addressed the need in the art for         versatile and robust technologies that enable optical and         chemical modulation of DNA-binding domains based CRISPR Cas9         enzyme and also Transcriptional Activator Like Effectors     -   Ran et al. (2013-A) described an approach that combined a Cas9         nickase mutant with paired guide RNAs to introduce targeted         double-strand breaks. This addresses the issue of the Cas9         nuclease from the microbial CRISPR-Cas system being targeted to         specific genomic loci by a guide sequence, which can tolerate         certain mismatches to the DNA target and thereby promote         undesired off-target mutagenesis. Because individual nicks in         the genome are repaired with high fidelity, simultaneous nicking         via appropriately offset guide RNAs is required for         double-stranded breaks and extends the number of specifically         recognized bases for target cleavage. The authors demonstrated         that using paired nicking can reduce off-target activity by 50-         to 1,500-fold in cell lines and to facilitate gene knockout in         mouse zygotes without sacrificing on-target cleavage efficiency.         This versatile strategy enables a wide variety of genome editing         applications that require high specificity.     -   Hsu et al. (2013) characterized SpCas9 targeting specificity in         human cells to inform the selection of target sites and avoid         off-target effects. The study evaluated >700 guide RNA variants         and SpCas9-induced indel mutation levels at >100 predicted         genomic off-target loci in 293T and 293FT cells. The authors         that SpCas9 tolerates mismatches between guide RNA and target         DNA at different positions in a sequence-dependent manner,         sensitive to the number, position and distribution of         mismatches. The authors further showed that SpCas9-mediated         cleavage is unaffected by DNA methylation and that the dosage of         SpCas9 and sgRNA can be titrated to minimize off-target         modification. Additionally, to facilitate mammalian genome         engineering applications, the authors reported providing a         web-based software tool to guide the selection and validation of         target sequences as well as off-target analyses.     -   Ran et al. (2013-B) described a set of tools for Cas9-mediated         genome editing via non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) or         homology-directed repair (HDR) in mammalian cells, as well as         generation of modified cell lines for downstream functional         studies. To minimize off-target cleavage, the authors further         described a double-nicking strategy using the Cas9 nickase         mutant with paired guide RNAs. The protocol provided by the         authors experimentally derived guidelines for the selection of         target sites, evaluation of cleavage efficiency and analysis of         off-target activity. The studies showed that beginning with         target design, gene modifications can be achieved within as         little as 1-2 weeks, and modified clonal cell lines can be         derived within 2-3 weeks.     -   Shalem et al. described a new way to interrogate gene function         on a genome-wide scale. Their studies showed that delivery of a         genome-scale CRISPR-Cas9 knockout (GeCKO) library targeted         18,080 genes with 64,751 unique guide sequences enabled both         negative and positive selection screening in human cells. First,         the authors showed use of the GeCKO library to identify genes         essential for cell viability in cancer and pluripotent stem         cells. Next, in a melanoma model, the authors screened for genes         whose loss is involved in resistance to vemurafenib, a         therapeutic that inhibits mutant protein kinase BRAF. Their         studies showed that the highest-ranking candidates included         previously validated genes NF1 and MED12 as well as novel hits         NF2, CUL3, TADA2B, and TADA1. The authors observed a high level         of consistency between independent guide RNAs targeting the same         gene and a high rate of hit confirmation, and thus demonstrated         the promise of genome-scale screening with Cas9.     -   Nishimasu et al. reported the crystal structure of Streptococcus         pyogenes Cas9 in complex with sgRNA and its target DNA at 2.5 A°         resolution. The structure revealed a bilobed architecture         composed of target recognition and nuclease lobes, accommodating         the sgRNA:DNA heteroduplex in a positively charged groove at         their interface. Whereas the recognition lobe is essential for         binding sgRNA and DNA, the nuclease lobe contains the HNH and         RuvC nuclease domains, which are properly positioned for         cleavage of the complementary and non-complementary strands of         the target DNA, respectively. The nuclease lobe also contains a         carboxyl-terminal domain responsible for the interaction with         the protospacer adjacent motif (PAM). This high-resolution         structure and accompanying functional analyses have revealed the         molecular mechanism of RNA-guided DNA targeting by Cas9, thus         paving the way for the rational design of new, versatile         genome-editing technologies.     -   Wu et al. mapped genome-wide binding sites of a catalytically         inactive Cas9 (dCas9) from Streptococcus pyogenes loaded with         single guide RNAs (sgRNAs) in mouse embryonic stem cells         (mESCs). The authors showed that each of the four sgRNAs tested         targets dCas9 to between tens and thousands of genomic sites,         frequently characterized by a 5-nucleotide seed region in the         sgRNA and an NGG protospacer adjacent motif (PAM). Chromatin         inaccessibility decreases dCas9 binding to other sites with         matching seed sequences; thus 70% of off-target sites are         associated with genes. The authors showed that targeted         sequencing of 295 dCas9 binding sites in mESCs transfected with         catalytically active Cas9 identified only one site mutated above         background levels. The authors proposed a two-state model for         Cas9 binding and cleavage, in which a seed match triggers         binding but extensive pairing with target DNA is required for         cleavage.     -   Platt et al. established a Cre-dependent Cas9 knockin mouse. The         authors demonstrated in vivo as well as ex vivo genome editing         using adeno-associated virus (AAV)-, lentivirus-, or         particle-mediated delivery of guide RNA in neurons, immune         cells, and endothelial cells.     -   Hsu et al. (2014) is a review article that discusses generally         CRISPR-Cas9 history from yogurt to genome editing, including         genetic screening of cells.     -   Wang et al. (2014) relates to a pooled, loss-of-function genetic         screening approach suitable for both positive and negative         selection that uses a genome-scale lentiviral single guide RNA         (sgRNA) library.     -   Doench et al. created a pool of sgRNAs, tiling across all         possible target sites of a panel of six endogenous mouse and         three endogenous human genes and quantitatively assessed their         ability to produce null alleles of their target gene by antibody         staining and flow cytometry. The authors showed that         optimization of the PAM improved activity and also provided an         on-line tool for designing sgRNAs.     -   Swiech et al. demonstrate that AAV-mediated SpCas9 genome         editing can enable reverse genetic studies of gene function in         the brain.     -   Konermann et al. (2015) discusses the ability to attach multiple         effector domains, e.g., transcriptional activator, functional         and epigenomic regulators at appropriate positions on the guide         such as stem or tetraloop with and without linkers.     -   Zetsche et al. demonstrates that the Cas9 enzyme can be split         into two and hence the assembly of Cas9 for activation can be         controlled.     -   Chen et al. relates to multiplex screening by demonstrating that         a genome-wide in vivo CRISPR-Cas9 screen in mice reveals genes         regulating lung metastasis.     -   Ran et al. (2015) relates to SaCas9 and its ability to edit         genomes and demonstrates that one cannot extrapolate from         biochemical assays. Shalem et al. (2015) described ways in which         catalytically inactive Cas9 (dCas9) fusions are used to         synthetically repress (CRISPRi) or activate (CRISPRa)         expression, showing. advances using Cas9 for genome-scale         screens, including arrayed and pooled screens, knockout         approaches that inactivate genomic loci and strategies that         modulate transcriptional activity.     -   Shalem et al. (2015) described ways in which catalytically         inactive Cas9 (dCas9) fusions are used to synthetically repress         (CRISPRi) or activate (CRISPRa) expression, showing. advances         using Cas9 for genome-scale screens, including arrayed and         pooled screens, knockout approaches that inactivate genomic loci         and strategies that modulate transcriptional activity.     -   Xu et al. (2015) assessed the DNA sequence features that         contribute to single guide RNA (sgRNA) efficiency in         CRISPR-based screens. The authors explored efficiency of         CRISPR/Cas9 knockout and nucleotide preference at the cleavage         site. The authors also found that the sequence preference for         CRISPRi/a is substantially different from that for CRISPR/Cas9         knockout.     -   Parnas et al. (2015) introduced genome-wide pooled CRISPR-Cas9         libraries into dendritic cells (DCs) to identify genes that         control the induction of tumor necrosis factor (Tnf) by         bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Known regulators of Tlr4         signaling and previously unknown candidates were identified and         classified into three functional modules with distinct effects         on the canonical responses to LPS.     -   Ramanan et al (2015) demonstrated cleavage of viral episomal DNA         (cccDNA) in infected cells. The HBV genome exists in the nuclei         of infected hepatocytes as a 3.2 kb double-stranded episomal DNA         species called covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), which is         a key component in the HBV life cycle whose replication is not         inhibited by current therapies. The authors showed that sgRNAs         specifically targeting highly conserved regions of HBV robustly         suppresses viral replication and depleted cccDNA.     -   Nishimasu et al. (2015) reported the crystal structures of         SaCas9 in complex with a single guide RNA (sgRNA) and its         double-stranded DNA targets, containing the 5′-TTGAAT-3′ PAM and         the 5′-TTGGGT-3′ PAM. A structural comparison of SaCas9 with         SpCas9 highlighted both structural conservation and divergence,         explaining their distinct PAM specificities and orthologous         sgRNA recognition.     -   Canver et al. (2015) demonstrated a CRISPR-Cas9-based functional         investigation of non-coding genomic elements. The authors we         developed pooled CRISPR-Cas9 guide RNA libraries to perform in         situ saturating mutagenesis of the human and mouse BCL11A         enhancers which revealed critical features of the enhancers.     -   Zetsche et al. (2015) reported characterization of Cpf1, a class         2 CRISPR nuclease from Francisella novicida U112 having features         distinct from Cas9. Cpf1 is a single RNA-guided endonuclease         lacking tracrRNA, utilizes a T-rich protospacer-adjacent motif,         and cleaves DNA via a staggered DNA double-stranded break.     -   Shmakov et al. (2015) reported three distinct Class 2 CRISPR-Cas         systems. Two system CRISPR enzymes (C2c1 and C2c3) contain         RuvC-like endonuclease domains distantly related to Cpf1. Unlike         Cpf1, C2c1 depends on both crRNA and tracrRNA for DNA cleavage.         The third enzyme (C2c2) contains two predicted HEPN RNase         domains and is tracrRNA independent.     -   Slaymaker et al (2016) reported the use of structure-guided         protein engineering to improve the specificity of Streptococcus         pyogenes Cas9 (SpCas9). The authors developed “enhanced         specificity” SpCas9 (eSpCas9) variants which maintained robust         on-target cleavage with reduced off-target effects.

Also, “Dimeric CRISPR RNA-guided Fold nucleases for highly specific genome editing”, Shengdar Q. Tsai, Nicolas Wyvekens, Cyd Khayter, Jennifer A. Foden, Vishal Thapar, Deepak Reyon, Mathew J. Goodwin, Martin J. Aryee, J. Keith Joung Nature Biotechnology 32(6): 569-77 (2014), relates to dimeric RNA-guided Fold Nucleases that recognize extended sequences and can edit endogenous genes with high efficiencies in human cells.

With respect to general information on CRISPR-Cas Systems, components thereof, and delivery of such components, including methods, materials, delivery vehicles, vectors, particles, AAV, and making and using thereof, including as to amounts and formulations, all useful in the practice of the instant invention, reference is made to: U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,697,359, 8,771,945, 8,795,965, 8,865,406, 8,871,445, 8,889,356, 8,889,418, 8,895,308, 8,906,616, 8,932,814, 8,945,839, 8,993,233 and 8,999,641; US Patent Publications US 2014-0310830 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/105,031), US 2014-0287938 A1 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/213,991), US 2014-0273234 A1 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/293,674), US2014-0273232 A1 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/290,575), US 2014-0273231 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/259,420), US 2014-0256046 A1 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/226,274), US 2014-0248702 A1 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/258,458), US 2014-0242700 A1 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/222,930), US 2014-0242699 A1 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/183,512), US 2014-0242664 A1 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/104,990), US 2014-0234972 A1 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/183,471), US 2014-0227787 A1 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/256,912), US 2014-0189896 A1 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/105,035), US 2014-0186958 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/105,017), US 2014-0186919 A1 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/104,977), US 2014-0186843 A1 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/104,900), US 2014-0179770 A1 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/104,837) and US 2014-0179006 A1 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/183,486), US 2014-0170753 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/183,429); US 2015-0184139 (U.S. application Ser. No. 14/324,960); Ser. No. 14/054,414 European Patent Applications EP 2 771 468 (EP13818570.7), EP 2 764 103 (EP13824232.6), and EP 2 784 162 (EP14170383.5); and PCT Patent Publications WO 2014/093661 (PCT/US2013/074743), WO 2014/093694 (PCT/US2013/074790), WO 2014/093595 (PCT/US2013/074611), WO 2014/093718 (PCT/US2013/074825), WO 2014/093709 (PCT/US2013/074812), WO 2014/093622 (PCT/US2013/074667), WO 2014/093635 (PCT/US2013/074691), WO 2014/093655 (PCT/US2013/074736), WO 2014/093712 (PCT/US2013/074819), WO 2014/093701 (PCT/US2013/074800), WO 2014/018423 (PCT/US2013/051418), WO 2014/204723 (PCT/US2014/041790), WO 2014/204724 (PCT/US2014/041800), WO 2014/204725 (PCT/US2014/041803), WO 2014/204726 (PCT/US2014/041804), WO 2014/204727 (PCT/US2014/041806), WO 2014/204728 (PCT/US2014/041808), WO 2014/204729 (PCT/US2014/041809), WO 2015/089351 (PCT/US2014/069897), WO 2015/089354 (PCT/US2014/069902), WO 2015/089364 (PCT/US2014/069925), WO 2015/089427 (PCT/US2014/070068), WO 2015/089462 (PCT/US2014/070127), WO 2015/089419 (PCT/US2014/070057), WO 2015/089465 (PCT/US2014/070135), WO 2015/089486 (PCT/US2014/070175), PCT/US2015/051691, PCT/US2015/051830. Reference is also made to U.S. provisional patent applications 61/758,468; 61/802,174; 61/806,375; 61/814,263; 61/819,803 and 61/828,130, filed on Jan. 30, 2013; Mar. 15, 2013; Mar. 28, 2013; Apr. 20, 2013; May 6, 2013 and May 28, 2013 respectively. Reference is also made to U.S. provisional patent application 61/836,123, filed on Jun. 17, 2013. Reference is additionally made to U.S. provisional patent applications 61/835,931, 61/835,936, 61/835,973, 61/836,080, 61/836,101, and 61/836,127, each filed Jun. 17, 2013. Further reference is made to U.S. provisional patent applications 61/862,468 and 61/862,355 filed on Aug. 5, 2013; 61/871,301 filed on Aug. 28, 2013; 61/960,777 filed on Sep. 25, 2013 and 61/961,980 filed on Oct. 28, 2013. Reference is yet further made to: PCT/US2014/62558 filed Oct. 28, 2014, and U.S. Provisional Patent Applications Ser. Nos. 61/915,148, 61/915,150, 61/915,153, 61/915,203, 61/915,251, 61/915,301, 61/915,267, 61/915,260, and 61/915,397, each filed Dec. 12, 2013; 61/757,972 and 61/768,959, filed on Jan. 29, 2013 and Feb. 25, 2013; 62/010,888 and 62/010,879, both filed Jun. 11, 2014; 62/010,329, 62/010,439 and 62/010,441, each filed Jun. 10, 2014; 61/939,228 and 61/939,242, each filed Feb. 12, 2014; 61/980,012, filed April 15,2014; 62/038,358, filed Aug. 17, 2014; 62/055,484, 62/055,460 and 62/055,487, each filed Sep. 25, 2014; and 62/069,243, filed Oct. 27, 2014. Reference is made to PCT application designating, inter alia, the United States, application No. PCT/US14/41806, filed Jun. 10, 2014. Reference is made to U.S. provisional patent application 61/930,214 filed on Jan. 22, 2014. Reference is made to PCT application designating, inter alia, the United States, application No. PCT/US14/41806, filed Jun. 10, 2014.

Mention is also made of U.S. application 62/180,709, 17 Jun. 15, PROTECTED GUIDE RNAS (PGRNAS); U.S. application 62/091,455, filed, 12 Dec. 14, PROTECTED GUIDE RNAS (PGRNAS); U.S. application 62/096,708, 24 Dec. 14, PROTECTED GUIDE RNAS (PGRNAS); U.S. applications 62/091,462, 12 Dec. 14, 62/096,324, 23 Dec. 14, 62/180,681, 17 Jun. 2015, and 62/237,496, 5 Oct. 2015, DEAD GUIDES FOR CRISPR TRANSCRIPTION FACTORS; U.S. application 62/091,456, 12 Dec. 14 and 62/180,692, 17 Jun. 2015, ESCORTED AND FUNCTIONALIZED GUIDES FOR CRISPR-CAS SYSTEMS; U.S. application 62/091,461, 12 Dec. 14, DELIVERY, USE AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS OF THE CRISPR-CAS SYSTEMS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR GENOME EDITING AS TO HEMATOPOETIC STEM CELLS (HSCs); U.S. application 62/094,903, 19 Dec. 2014, UNBIASED IDENTIFICATION OF DOUBLE-STRAND BREAKS AND GENOMIC REARRANGEMENT BY GENOME-WISE INSERT CAPTURE SEQUENCING; U.S. application 62/096,761, 24 Dec. 14, ENGINEERING OF SYSTEMS, METHODS AND OPTIMIZED ENZYME AND GUIDE SCAFFOLDS FOR SEQUENCE MANIPULATION; U.S. application 62/098,059, 30 Dec. 14, 62/181,641, 18 Jun. 2015, and 62/181,667, 18 Jun. 2015, RNA-TARGETING SYSTEM; U.S. application 62/096,656, 24 Dec. 14 and 62/181,151, 17 Jun. 2015, CRISPR HAVING OR ASSOCIATED WITH DESTABILIZATION DOMAINS; U.S. application 62/096,697, 24 Dec. 14, CRISPR HAVING OR ASSOCIATED WITH AAV; U.S. application 62/098,158, 30 Dec. 14, ENGINEERED CRISPR COMPLEX INSERTIONAL TARGETING SYSTEMS; U.S. application 62/151,052, 22 Apr. 15, CELLULAR TARGETING FOR EXTRACELLULAR EXOSOMAL REPORTING; U.S. application 62/054,490, 24 Sep. 14, DELIVERY, USE AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS OF THE CRISPR-CAS SYSTEMS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR TARGETING DISORDERS AND DISEASES USING PARTICLE DELIVERY COMPONENTS; U.S. application 61/939,154, 12 Feb. 14, SYSTEMS, METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR SEQUENCE MANIPULATION WITH OPTIMIZED FUNCTIONAL CRISPR-CAS SYSTEMS; U.S. application 62/055,484, 25 Sep. 14, SYSTEMS, METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR SEQUENCE MANIPULATION WITH OPTIMIZED FUNCTIONAL CRISPR-CAS SYSTEMS; U.S. application 62/087,537, 4 Dec. 14, SYSTEMS, METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR SEQUENCE MANIPULATION WITH OPTIMIZED FUNCTIONAL CRISPR-CAS SYSTEMS; U.S. application 62/054,651, 24 Sep. 14, DELIVERY, USE AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS OF THE CRISPR-CAS SYSTEMS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR MODELING COMPETITION OF MULTIPLE CANCER MUTATIONS IN VIVO; U.S. application 62/067,886, 23 Oct. 14, DELIVERY, USE AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS OF THE CRISPR-CAS SYSTEMS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR MODELING COMPETITION OF MULTIPLE CANCER MUTATIONS IN VIVO; U.S. applications 62/054,675, 24 Sep. 14 and 62/181,002, 17 Jun. 2015, DELIVERY, USE AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS OF THE CRISPR-CAS SYSTEMS AND COMPOSITIONS IN NEURONAL CELLS/TISSUES; U.S. application 62/054,528, 24 Sep. 14, DELIVERY, USE AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS OF THE CRISPR-CAS SYSTEMS AND COMPOSITIONS IN IMMUNE DISEASES OR DISORDERS; U.S. application 62/055,454, 25 Sep. 14, DELIVERY, USE AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS OF THE CRISPR-CAS SYSTEMS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR TARGETING DISORDERS AND DISEASES USING CELL PENETRATION PEPTIDES (CPP); U.S. application 62/055,460, 25 Sep. 14, MULTIFUNCTIONAL-CRISPR COMPLEXES AND/OR OPTIMIZED ENZYME LINKED FUNCTIONAL-CRISPR COMPLEXES; U.S. application 62/087,475, 4 Dec. 14 and 62/181,690, 18 Jun. 2015, FUNCTIONAL SCREENING WITH OPTIMIZED FUNCTIONAL CRISPR-CAS SYSTEMS; U.S. application 62/055,487, 25 Sep. 14, FUNCTIONAL SCREENING WITH OPTIMIZED FUNCTIONAL CRISPR-CAS SYSTEMS; U.S. application 62/087,546, 4 Dec. 14 and 62/181,687, 18 Jun. 2015, MULTIFUNCTIONAL CRISPR COMPLEXES AND/OR OPTIMIZED ENZYME LINKED FUNCTIONAL-CRISPR COMPLEXES; and U.S. application 62/098,285, 30 Dec. 14, CRISPR MEDIATED IN VIVO MODELING AND GENETIC SCREENING OF TUMOR GROWTH AND METASTASIS.

Mention is made of U.S. applications 62/181,659, 18 Jun. 2015 and 62/207,318, 19 Aug. 2015, ENGINEERING AND OPTIMIZATION OF SYSTEMS, METHODS, ENZYME AND GUIDE SCAFFOLDS OF CAS9 ORTHOLOGS AND VARIANTS FOR SEQUENCE MANIPULATION. Mention is made of U.S. applications 62/181,663, 18 Jun. 2015 and 62/245,264, 22 Oct. 2015, NOVEL CRISPR ENZYMES AND SYSTEMS, U.S. applications 62/181,675, 18 Jun. 2015, 62/285,349, 22 Oct. 2015, 62/296,522, 17 Feb. 2016, and 62/320,231, 8 Apr. 2016, NOVEL CRISPR ENZYMES AND SYSTEMS, U.S. application 62/232,067, 24 Sep. 2015, U.S. application Ser. No. 14/975,085, 18 Dec. 2015, European application No. 16150428.7, U.S. application 62/205,733, 16 Aug. 2015, U.S. application 62/201,542, 5 Aug. 2015, U.S. application 62/193,507, 16 Jul. 2015, and U.S. application 62/181,739, 18 Jun. 2015, each entitled NOVEL CRISPR ENZYMES AND SYSTEMS and of U.S. application 62/245,270, 22 Oct. 2015, NOVEL CRISPR ENZYMES AND SYSTEMS. Mention is also made of U.S. application 61/939,256, 12 Feb. 2014, and WO 2015/089473 (PCT/US2014/070152), 12 Dec. 2014, each entitled ENGINEERING OF SYSTEMS, METHODS AND OPTIMIZED GUIDE COMPOSITIONS WITH NEW ARCHITECTURES FOR SEQUENCE MANIPULATION. Mention is also made of PCT/US2015/045504, 15 Aug. 2015, U.S. application 62/180,699, 17 Jun. 2015, and U.S. application 62/038,358, 17 Aug. 2014, each entitled GENOME EDITING USING CAS9 NICKASES.

Each of these patents, patent publications, and applications, and all documents cited therein or during their prosecution (“appln cited documents”) and all documents cited or referenced in the appln cited documents, together with any instructions, descriptions, product specifications, and product sheets for any products mentioned therein or in any document therein and incorporated by reference herein, are hereby incorporated herein by reference, and may be employed in the practice of the invention. All documents (e.g., these patents, patent publications and applications and the appln cited documents) are incorporated herein by reference to the same extent as if each individual document was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

In addition, mention is made of PCT application PCT/US14/70057, Attorney Reference 47627.99.2060 and BI-2013/107 entitiled “DELIVERY, USE AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS OF THE CRISPR-CAS SYSTEMS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR TARGETING DISORDERS AND DISEASES USING PARTICLE DELIVERY COMPONENTS (claiming priority from one or more or all of US provisional patent applications: 62/054,490, filed Sep. 24, 2014; 62/010,441, filed Jun. 10, 2014; and 61/915,118, 61/915,215 and 61/915,148, each filed on Dec. 12, 2013) (“the Particle Delivery PCT”), incorporated herein by reference, with respect to a method of preparing an sgRNA-and-Cas9 protein containing particle comprising admixing a mixture comprising an sgRNA and Cas9 protein (and optionally HDR template) with a mixture comprising or consisting essentially of or consisting of surfactant, phospholipid, biodegradable polymer, lipoprotein and alcohol; and particles from such a process. For example, wherein Cas9 protein and sgRNA were mixed together at a suitable, e.g., 3:1 to 1:3 or 2:1 to 1:2 or 1:1 molar ratio, at a suitable temperature, e.g., 15-30C, e.g., 20-25C, e.g., room temperature, for a suitable time, e.g., 15-45, such as 30 minutes, advantageously in sterile, nuclease free buffer, e.g., 1×PBS. Separately, particle components such as or comprising: a surfactant, e.g., cationic lipid, e.g., 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DOTAP); phospholipid, e.g., dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC); biodegradable polymer, such as an ethylene-glycol polymer or PEG, and a lipoprotein, such as a low-density lipoprotein, e.g., cholesterol were dissolved in an alcohol, advantageously a C₁₋₆ alkyl alcohol, such as methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, e.g., 100% ethanol. The two solutions were mixed together to form particles containing the Cas9-sgRNA complexes. Accordingly, sgRNA may be pre-complexed with the Cas9 protein, before formulating the entire complex in a particle. Formulations may be made with a different molar ratio of different components known to promote delivery of nucleic acids into cells (e.g. 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DOTAP), 1,2-ditetradecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DMPC), polyethylene glycol (PEG), and cholesterol) For example DOTAP:DMPC:PEG:Cholesterol Molar Ratios may be DOTAP 100, DMPC 0, PEG 0, Cholesterol 0; or DOTAP 90, DMPC 0, PEG 10, Cholesterol 0; or DOTAP 90, DMPC 0, PEG 5, Cholesterol 5. DOTAP 100, DMPC 0, PEG 0, Cholesterol 0. That application accordingly comprehends admixing sgRNA, Cas9 protein and components that form a particle; as well as particles from such admixing. Aspects of the instant invention can involve particles; for example, particles using a process analogous to that of the Particle Delivery PCT, e.g., by admixing a mixture comprising sgRNA and/or Cas9 as in the instant invention and components that form a particle, e.g., as in the Particle Delivery PCT, to form a particle and particles from such admixing (or, of course, other particles involving sgRNA and/or Cas9 as in the instant invention).

The invention will now be further described by way of the following non-limiting examples.

EXAMPLES

The following examples serve to illustrate the invention herein described. It is to be understood that the scientific rationale, described below, which motivated the studies is not to be construed so as to limit the subject-matter claimed in any way, or to impose any mechanistic or other requirement.

Scientific Rationale

Without wishing to be bound by any theory described herein, the inventors devised a strategy for the modification of Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 (SpCas9) intended to generate modified variant SpCas9 enzymes which show improved target specificity. The same rationale can be applied to any Cas9 ortholog. This improved specificity may be achieved in variants which show reduced activity towards non-target (off-target) loci whilst at the same time maintaining appropriate activity towards the intended target locus. Activity in the assays described below relates to nuclease activity manifest by cleavage of DNA as measured by the formation of INDELS. Such activity is expected to relate to the ability of the CRISPR complex (that is to say the complex between the Cas9 enzyme and guide RNA) to bind to the relevant site on DNA. Thus, a reduction in activity toward a non-target site may be expected to arise from reduced binding of the CRISPR complex at that site. Modified Cas9 enzymes which show reduced activity towards non-target loci compared to unmodified (e.g. wild-type) enzymes may therefore be expected to bind less well to non-target sites. Nishimasu et al. (Cell, 2014, 156(5), pp935-49) reports the crystal structure at 2.5 Å resolution of an SpCas9 variant enzyme in complex with a single-guide RNA (sgRNA) of 98 nucleotides in length and a stretch of target DNA comprising 23 nucleotides in length. Based on these structural data, the inventors identified a positively-charged region situated between the RuvC-III and HNH domains. The inventors inferred that the groove may accommodate the non-target strand following disruption of normal Watson-Crick base-paring upon binding of the Cas9 enzyme to a relevant region of DNA. Positively charges residues of this region of Cas9 may act to stabilize the interaction between enzyme and DNA by interacting with the negatively-charged phosphodiester backbone of the non-target strand of DNA. The inventors hypothesize that by substitution of positively charged residues of Cas9, interactions with the non-target strand may be disrupted. Sufficient disruption of this interaction may maintain appropriate activity towards target sites but reduce the activity of the enzyme towards non-target sites (which will ordinarily be expected to have weaker interactions with the guide sequence on account of one or more mismatches compared the target sequence). The inventors surprisingly discovered that modification of Cas9 can indeed reduce off-target activity. See also FIG. 1, and discussion herein of same.

Further to the invention that substitution of positively charged residues disrupts interactions with the DNA backbone and leads to reduced activity of the enzyme towards non-target sites while maintaining appropriate activity towards target sites, mention is made of Kleinstiver B P et al. The authors describe a triple substitution variant (R661A/Q695A/Q926A) and the quadruple substitution variant (N497A/R661A/Q695A/Q926A) of SpCas9 containing mutations in REC1 domain. The substitutions involve residues that are designed to disrupt hydrogen bonds to the DNA phosphate backbone and the mutants are reported to have high on-target activity and minimal off-target activity. (see, Kleinstiver B P et al., High-fidelity CRISPR-Cas9 nucleases with no detectable genome-wide off-target effects. Nature 2016 Jan. 28; 529(7587):490-5. doi: 10.1038/nature16526. Epub 2016 Jan. 6.

In addition, the inventors also hypothesize that modification of amino acid residues of the CRISPR enzyme can be made which may have the effect of increasing the stability of the interaction between enzyme and the non-target strand following disruption of normal Watson-Crick base-paring upon binding of the Cas9 enzyme to a relevant region of DNA. For example, substitution with a positively charged amino acid of an amino acid residue which in an unmodified enzyme is not positively charged may have the effect of stabilizing the interaction between enzyme and non-target strand by increasing the net positive charge of the enzyme. Thus, a greater net positive charge in relevant regions of the enzyme will be expected to provide a stronger interaction with the negatively-charged phosphodiester backbone of the non-target strand of DNA. Amino acids which in an unmodified enzyme are not positively charged can be for example amino acids which are charge neutral, negatively charged, hydrophobic etc. Any such amino acids may be substituted with a positively charged amino acid so achieve the required effect. The above-described functional effects are based on complex and inter-related electrostatic and thermodynamic considerations. It will thus be appreciated that the above-described functional effects may be combined. Thus, a CRISPR enzyme may be modified in a way that enhances the activity of the enzyme towards target, but also reduces the activity toward one or more off-targets. For example, is expected that modifications may be made which promote increased on-target activity whilst modifications may be made which reduce off-target activity. Thus, synergistic effects may be achieved.

It will be appreciated that any of the functional effects described above may be achieved by modification of amino acids within the aforementioned groove but also by modification of amino acids adjacent to or outside of that groove.

Example 1—Materials and Methods Generation of SpCas9 Mutants

Although this should be evident from the entire context of this disclosure, the abbreviation “SpCas9” refers to Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 and the abbreviation “SaCas9” refers to Staphylococcus aureus Cas9. Modified SpCas9 and SaCas9 variants, e.g., modified alanine variants were created by PCR-based mutagenesis using known techniques. (Other techniques can include preparing nucleic acid molecule encoding the Cas9, but with the respective codon(s) for the protein mutation(s) or modification(s) changed, so as to have the modified or mutated Cas9 expressed, e.g., via a vector expression system, such as a bacterial expression system or a viral expression vector system. The modified or mutated Cas9 so expressed can then be readily purified. The modified or mutated Cas9s of the invention can be used in CRISPR-Cas systems and in any application of CRISPR-Cas systems; and advantageously have the advantage of reduced or virtually no or essentially no or no off-target effects and/or increased on-target effects. Accordingly, an inventive Cas9 or an inventive CRISPR-Cas system having an inventive Cas9 can be delivered via a delivery system that can be one or more vectors, including as herein-discussed.)

System for Testing Modified Cas9 Activity

Modified Cas9 enzymes were tested by co-transfection of plasmid encoding mutant Cas9 and plasmid encoding sgRNA (on-target only) into HEK293T or HEK293FT cells. Cells were transfected at 90-95% confluency using Lipofectamine 2000, grown at 37° C. and 5% CO₂ for approximately 72 h, and harvested. On-target and off-target genomic loci were PCR amplified and analyzed using next-generation sequencing (NGS). Indel % for on-target and off-target loci were calculated from sequencing data. SpCas9 mutants were tested with the genomic loci shown in Table A. SaCas9 mutants were tested by NGS using the EMX101 guide and OT1 to OT3 from Ran at al. 2015. No biochemical or SURVEYOR analyses were performed (all data is from NGS; cf. Sidi-Chen, “Genome-wide CRISPR Screen in a Mouse Model of Tumor Growth and Metastasis,” Cell 160(6): 1246-1260, DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2015.02.038, 12 Mar. 2015).

Indel Analyses

Indel analyses by targeted deep sequencing were carried out and analyzed as previously described (Hsu, P. D. et al. (2013) DNA targeting specificity of RNA-guided Cas9 nucleases. Nat. Biotechnol. 31, 827-832). Cells were harvested approximately 3 days post transfection. Genomic DNA was extracted using a QuickExtract DNA extraction kit (Epicentre) by resuspending pelleted cells in QuickExtract (804, per 24-well, or 204, per 96-well), followed by incubation at 65° C. for 15 min, 68° C. for 15 min and 98° C. for 10-15 min. PCR fragments for NGS analysis were generated in two step PCR reactions. Briefly, primers with PCR handles for second round amplification were used to amplify genomic regions of interest (Table 2), followed by a fusion PCR method to attach Illumina P5 adapters as well as unique sample-specific barcodes to the first round PCR product.

Example 2—Initial Analysis of Single SpCas9 Mutants (EMX1 and VEGFA Target Sequences)

49 initial single point mutations of SpCas9 were generated and tested for INDEL formation. The target sequences in this Example were sequences of the EMX1 and VEGFA genes. Both target and off-target sequences are shown in Table A below, with the PAM sequences. In the off-target sequence, mismatches as between the target sequence are shown in bold and underlined. The results are shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B.

The following mutants showed reduced activity toward the off-target sites compared to the wild-type enzyme (see FIGS. 2A and 2B).

-   -   R63A     -   H415A     -   H447A     -   R778A     -   R780A     -   Q807A     -   K810A     -   R832A     -   K848A     -   K855A     -   K968A     -   R976A     -   H982A     -   K1000A     -   K1003A     -   K1047A     -   R1060A     -   K1107A     -   R1114A     -   K1118A     -   K1200A

Example 3—Further Analysis of Single SpCas9 Mutants

Several single point mutant modified SpCas9 enzymes identified in Example 2 were further tested for INDEL formation with a third guide sequence and additional off-target loci. Target and off-target sequences are shown in Table A below, with the PAM sequences. In the off-target sequence, mismatches as between the target sequence are shown underlined in bold. The results are shown in FIG. 3. The modified SpCas9 enzymes tested in this Example were:

-   -   R780A     -   K810A     -   K848A     -   K855A     -   R976A     -   H982A     -   K1003A     -   R1060A

As shown in FIG. 3, all eight modified enzymes showed reduced activity towards off-target sites compared to an unmodified (wild-type) enzyme (SpCas9).

Example 4—Further Analysis of Single SpCas9 Mutants (VEGFA1 Target Sequence)

Several single point mutant modified SpCas9 enzymes, including mutants described in Example 2, were tested for INDEL formation with a second different target sequence, in this case VEGFA1 is a sequence of the VEGFAgene. The modified SpCas9 enzymes tested in this Example were:

-   -   R780A     -   K810A     -   K848A     -   K855A     -   R976A     -   H982A     -   K1003A     -   R1060A     -   H1240A     -   H1311A

Target and off-target sequences are shown in Table A below, with the PAM sequences. In the off-target sequence, mismatches as between the target sequence are shown underlined in bold. The results are shown in FIG. 3.

Example 5—Analysis of Combination SpCas9 Mutants

Twenty-four double and 14 triple point mutant modified SpCas9 enzymes were generated and tested for INDEL formation with two different target sequences, in this case a sequence of the EMX1 and VEGFAgenes (VEGFA3 is a sequence in VEGFA). Target and off-target sequences are shown in Table A below, with PAM sequences. In the off-target sequence, mismatches as between the target sequence are shown in bold and underlined. The mutants tested and the results are shown in FIGS. 4 and 5; an asterisk in FIGS. 4 and 5 indicates an embodiment presently considered advantageous. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, all mutants showed a significant reduction of activity against OT 46, OT4, and OT18 off-targets compared to wild-type enzyme. Several combination mutants additionally showed a reduction of activity against all four off-targets while maintaining on-target activity similar to WT; these were:

Mutant Residue Residue Residue 1 K810A K848A 2 K848A K855A 3 R780A K1003A 4 K810A K1003A 5 R780A R1060A 6 K810A R1060A 7 K855A R1060A 8 H982A K1003A K1129E 9 R780A K1003A R1060A 10 K810A K1003A R1060A 11 K848A K1003A R1060A 12 K855A K1003A R1060A 13 K855A K1003A E610G

TABLE A SpCas9 Guides (SEQ ID NOS 56-67, respectively, in order of appearance) (target and off-target loci for SpCas9; red indicating off-target sequences mismatches; a vertical line I indicating SpCas9 cut site; off-target sequences rejected via mutation /modification of invention): 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 PAM EMX1 G A G T C C G A G C A G A A G A A | G A A g G G EMX1 OT53 G A G T C T A A G C A G A A G A A | G A A g A G EMX1 OT1 G A G T T A G A G C A G A A G A A | G A A a G G 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 PAM VEGFA1 G G G T G G G G G G A G T T T G C | T C C t G G VEGFA1 OT4 G G G A G G G T G G A G T T T G C | T C C t G G VEGFA1 OT6 C G G G G G A G G G A G T T T G C | T C C t G G 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 PAM VEGFA3 G G T G A G T G A G T G T G T G C | G T G t G G VEGFA3 OT1 G G T G A G T G A G T G T G T G T | G T G a G G VEGFA3 OT2 A G T G A G T G A G T G T G T G T | G T G g G G VEGFA3 OT4 G C T G A G T G A G T G T A T G C | G T G t G G VEGFA3 OT17 G T T G A G T G A A T G T G T G C | G T G a G G VEGFA3 OT18 T G T G G G T G A G T G T G T G C | G T G a G G

TABLE B SpCas9 reported mutations (documents cited incorporated by reference; reservation of right to explicitly disclaim any of these mutations alone, and note how none of the known mutations are dislosed or suggested as obtaining reduced off-target effect and/or increased capability of modifying the one or more target loci as compared to an unmodified enzyme, with it mentioned that in Anders et al that K1107A, KES → GG and KES→KG may confer specificity with respect to mismatches at positions 1 and 2 of the sgRNA, BUT at the expense of moderately reduced on-target cutting efficiency and they also did not give a more detailed of characterization of specificity such that the general assertion that these known mutatnts do not disclose or suggest the invention remains valid; and, it is mentioned that the invention can include any mutation/modification in the below table, in conjunction with a modification/mutation that confers reduced off-target effect, so long as the addition of one or more of the mutations/modifications below does not adversely impact on the reduced off- target and/or increased capability of modifying the one or more target loci effect achieved in the instant invention): New Residue Position Residue Domain Effect Citation D 10 A RuvC-I Nickase Cong et al. Science (2013) S 15 A RuvC-I Reduced activity Nishimasu et al. Cell (2014) R 63 A BH WT Nishimasu et al. Cell (2014) R 66 A BH Bridge helix; “markedly Nishimasu et al. reduced DNA cleavage Cell (2014) activities” R 69 A BH “decreased DNA cleavage Nishimasu et al. activity” Cell (2014) R 70 A BH No activity Nishimasu et al. Cell (2014) R 74 A BH Bridge helix; “markedly Nishimasu et al. reduced DNA cleavage Cell (2014) activities” R 75 A BH “decreased DNA cleavage Nishimasu et al. activity” Cell (2014) K 76 A BH Markedly reduced activity Hemphill et al. JACS (2015) R 78 A BH “moderately decreased Nishimasu et al. activity” Cell (2014) C 80 L BH WT Nishimasu et al. Cell (2014)  97-150 Deletion No activity Nishimasu et al. Cell (2014) K 163 A RecI Reduced activity Hemphill et al. JACS (2015) K 163 A RecI “decreased DNA cleavage Nishimasu et al. activity” Cell (2014) R 165 A RecI WT Nishimasu et al. Cell (2014) 175-307 Deletion RecII REC2 domain; moderately Nishimasu et al. reduced activity Cell (2014) 312-409 Deletion No activity Nishimasu et al. Cell (2014) PWN 475-477 AAA RecI “subtle, but reproducible, Jinek et al. decrease in activity” Science (2014) K 510 A RecI Reduced activity Hemphill et al. JACS (2015) K 510 A RecI WT Nishimasu et al. Cell (2014) C 574 E RecI WT Nishimasu et al. Cell (2014) K 742 A RuvC-II WT Hemphill et al. JACS (2015) E 762 A RuvC-II Nickase Nishimasu et al. Cell (2014) H 840 A HNH Nickase Ran et al. Cell (2014) N 854 A HNH Reduced activity Nishimasu et al. Cell (2014) N 863 A HNH Nickase Nishimasu et al. Cell (2014) K 866 A HNH No activity Hemphill et al. JACS (2015) H 982 A HNH Reduced activity Nishimasu et al. Cell (2014) H 983 A RuvC-III Nickase Nishimasu et al. Cell (2014) D 986 A RuvC-III Nickase Nishimasu et al. Cell (2014) K 1107 A PI Moderately reduced activity; Anders at al. confers specificity to positions Nature (2014) 1 and 2 ES 1108-1109 G PI Moderately reduced activity; Anders at al. confers specificity to positions Nature (2014) 1 and 2 KES 1107-1109 GG PI Moderately reduced activity; Anders at al. confers specificity to positions Nature (2014) 1 and 2 DWD 1125-1127 AAA PI WT Jinek et al. Science (2014) R 1333 A PI PAM recognition; “nearly Anders at al. abolished cleavage of Nature (2014) linearized plasmid DNA” R 1333 E PI “did not produce a specificity Anders at al. switch towards alanine-rich Nature (2014) PAMs” R 1335 A PI PAM recognition; “nearly Anders at al. abolished cleavage of Nature (2014) linearized plasmid DNA” R 1335 E PI “did not produce a specificity Anders at al. switch towards alanine-rich Nature (2014) PAMs” 1099-1368 Deletion PI No activity Nishimasu et al. Cell (2014)

Example 6—Analysis of Further SpCas9 Mutants (VEGFA3 Target Sequence)

Several further single point mutant modified SpCas9 enzymes were generated and tested for INDEL formation with the target sequence VEGFA3 being a sequence of the VEGFA gene. The modified SpCas9 enzymes tested in this Example were as shown below:

Mutant Residue 1 R403A 2 R63A 3 K782A 4 K890A 5 K1107A 6 R778A 7 K1200A 8 K1114A 9 K1118A 10 K890A 11 H415A

As shown in FIG. 2, several mutants showed a significant reduction of activity against both OT1 and OT4 off-targets compared to wild-type enzyme. Several mutants additionally showed a reduction of activity against all three off-targets compared to wild-type enzyme, these were:

Mutant Residue 1 R403A 2 R63A 3 K782A 5 K1107A 6 R778A 7 K1200A 11 H415A

Example 7—Analysis of SaCas9 Mutants (EMX101 Target Sequence)

Several single point mutant modified SaCas9 enzymes were generated and tested for INDEL formation with the target sequence being a sequence of the EMX101 gene. Target and off-target sequences are shown in Table C below, with PAM sequence. In the off-target sequence, mismatches as between the target sequence are shown in bold and underlined. The modified SaCas9 enzymes tested in this Example were alanine mutants as shown below:

-   -   K518A     -   K523A     -   K525A     -   H557A     -   R561A     -   K572A     -   R686A     -   K687A     -   K692A     -   R694A     -   H700A     -   K751A

As shown in FIG. 6, several mutants showed a significant reduction of activity against both OT2 and OT3 off-targets compared to wild-type enzyme. Several mutants additionally showed a reduction of activity against all three off-targets compared to wild-type enzyme, these were:

-   -   K523A     -   K525A     -   R561A     -   K572A     -   R694A     -   H700A

TABLE C Sequence information for guides used to validate SaCas9 mutations, including PAM (SEQ ID NOS 68-71, respectively, in order of appearance) (bold and underlining indicating off-target sequences mismatches; off-target sequences rejected via mutation/modificationof invention) # # # # # # # # # # # # PAM EMX101 G G C C T C C C C A A A G C C T G G C C A g g G A G t OT1 G A C C T C C C C A T A G C C T G G C C A g g G A G g OT2 G G C C T G C C C A A G G C C T G A C C A a g G G a a OT3 G G C C T ≐ C C C A A A G C C A G G C C A g g G G G a

FIG. 7 provides additional data as to the following herein-disclosed SaCas9 mutants.

Mutant Residue 1 R245A 2 R480A 3 R497A 4 R499A 5 R617A 6 R630A 7 R634A 8 R644A 9 R650A 10 R654A 11 K736A

Mutants R245A, R480A, R499A, R650A and R654A performed well with respect to reduction of off-target effects, with R480A, R499A and R245A performing especially well.

Example 8—Listing of Modified Cas9 Enzymes

For SpCas9, the single and combination mutants listed herein including in the foregoing Examples are presently considered advantageous as having demonstrated preferred specificity enhancement. SpCas9 and SaCas9 mutants, including those tested and those otherwise within this disclosure are listed below in Tables 1-7.

TABLE 1 List of SpCas9 quadruple mutants Mutant Residue Residue Residue Residue QM1 R63A K855A R1060A E610G QM2 R63A H982A K1003A K1129E QM3 R63A K810A K1003A R1060A

TABLE 2 List of SpCas9 single mutants Residue and Mutant substitution 1 R63A 2 H415A 3 H447A 4 R778A 5 R780A 6 R783A 7 Q807A 8 K810A 9 R832A 10 K848A 11 K855A 12 K968A 13 R976A 14 H982A 15 K1000A 16 K1003A 17 K1047A 18 R1060A 19 K1107A 20 R1114A 21 K1118A 22 R403A 23 K1200A

TABLE 3 List of SpCas9 double and triple mutants Mutant Residue and substitution 1 R780A R1060A 2 R780A K1003A 3 K810A K848A 4 K810A K855A 5 K848A K855A 6 K855A R1060A 7 R780A K1003A R1060A 8 K855A K1003A R1060A 9 H982A K1003A K1129E 10 K810A K1003A R1060A

TABLE 4 List of SaCas9 single mutants Mutant Residue 1 H700 2 R694 3 K692 4 R686 5 K687 6 K751 7 R561 8 H557 9 K572 10 K523 11 K518 12 K525

TABLE 5 List of SaCas9 single mutants Mutant Residue 2 R245 3 R480 4 R497 5 R499 6 R617 7 R630 8 R634 9 R644 10 R650 11 R654 12 K736

Representative examples of SpCas9 mutants are listed in Table 6 below.

TABLE 6 List of SpCas9 single mutants Residue and Mutant substitution 1 N14K 2 N776L 3 E781L 4 E809K 5 L813R 6 S845K 7 L847R 8 D849A 9 I852K 10 D859A 11 S964K 12 V975K 13 E977K 14 N978K

Table 7, below, provides exemplary mutants within this disclosure, including those exemplified.

TABLE 7 Representative Mutants Within This Disclosure Mutant Residue Region Single Mutants SM1 K775A Groove SM2 R780A Groove SM3 R780A Groove SM4 K810A Groove SM5 R832A Groove SM6 K848A Groove SM7 K855A Groove SM8 R859A Groove SM9 K862A Groove SM10 K866A Groove SM11 K961A Groove SM12 K968A Groove SM13 K974A Groove SM14 R976A Groove SM15 H982A Groove SM16 H983A Groove SM17 K1014A Groove SM18 K1047A Groove SM19 K1059A Groove SM20 R1060A Groove SM21 K1003A Groove SM22 H1240A Groove SM23 K1244A Groove SM24 K1289A Groove SM25 K1296A Groove SM26 H1297A Groove SM27 R1298A Groove SM28 K1300A Groove SM29 R1303A Groove SM30 H1311A Groove SM31 K1325A Groove SM32 K1107A PL SM33 E1108A PL SM34 S1109A PL SM35 ΔK1107 PL SM36 ΔE1108 PL SM37 ΔS1109 PL SM38 ES_G PL SM39 KES_GG PL SM40 R778A DNA SM41 K782A DNA SM42 R783A DNA SM43 K789A DNA SM44 K797A DNA SM45 K890A DNA SM46 R1114A cDNA SM47 K1118A cDNA SM48 K1200A cDNA SM49 R63A sgRNA SM50 K163A sgRNA SM51 R165A sgRNA SM52 R403A sgRNA SM53 H415A sgRNA SM54 R447A sgRNA SM55 K1000A Groove Double Mutants DM1 R780A K810A DM2 R780A K848A DM3 R780A K855A DM4 R780A R976A DM5 K810A K848A DM6 K810A K855A DM7 K810A R976A DM8 K848A K855A DM9 K848A R976A DM10 K855A R976A DM11 H982A R1060A DM12 H982A K1003A DM13 K1003A R1060A DM14 R780A H982A DM15 K810A H982A DM16 K848A H982A DM17 K855A H982A DM18 R780A K1003A DM19 K810A K1003A DM20 K848A K1003A DM21 K855A K1003A DM22 R780A R1060A DM23 K810A R1060A DM24 K848A R1060A DM25 K855A R1060A DM26 R63A R780A DM27 R63A K810A DM28 R63A K848A DM29 R63A K855A DM30 R63A H982A DM31 R63A R1060A DM32 H415A R780A DM33 H415A K848A DM34 R1114A R780A DM35 R1114A K848A DM36 K1107A R780A DM37 K1107A K848A DM38 E1108A R780A DM39 E1108A K848A Triple Mutants TM1 R780A K810A K848A TM2 R780A K810A K855A TM3 R780A K810A R976A TM4 R780A K848A K855A TM5 R780A K848A R976A TM6 R780A K855A R976A TM7 K810A K848A K855A TM8 K810A K848A R976A TM9 K810A K855A R976A TM10 K848A K855A R976A TM11 H982A K1003A R1060A TM12 H982A K1003A K1129E TM13 R780A K1003A R1060A TM14 K810A K1003A R1060A TM15 K848A K1003A R1060A TM16 K855A K1003A R1060A TM17 R63A H982A R1060A TM18 R63A K1003A R1060A TM19 R63A K848A R1060A Multiple Mutants 6x R780A K810A K848A K855A R976A H982A QM1 R63A K855A R1060A E610G QM2 R63A H982A K1003A K1129E QM3 R63A K810A K1003A R1060A

Example 9—Modification of Cas9 for Enhanced On-Target Activity

Initially, the inventors make modifications to uncharged amino acids situated in the groove between the RuvC-III and HNH domains of SpCas9. Amino acids to be modified include amino acids with uncharged side chains, including serine, threonine, asparagine and glutamine. Selected amino acids are changed to positively charged amino acids such as arginine or lysine. The effect of such single amino acid changes of SpCas9 on INDEL formation at target loci is assessed by next-generation sequencing as described above. Preferred mutations with increased/enhanced on-target activity compared to unmodified enzyme are selected. The inventors assess double and triple mutations as described above. Particularly preferred mutations with enhanced on-target activity are selected.

The inventors assess such mutations in SaCas9 in the same manner as described for SpCas9. Particularly preferred mutations with enhanced on-target activity are selected.

The inventors expand the range of modifications to uncharged amino acids situated adjacent to and outside of the groove between the RuvC-III and HNH domains of SpCas9. Again, the effect of these changes on INDEL formation at target loci is assessed by SURVEYOR analysis as described above. Preferred mutations with increased/enhanced on-target activity compared to unmodified enzyme are selected. Analogous analyses are carried out in SaCas9.

The inventors combine SpCas9 mutations which demonstrate enhanced on-target activity with mutations which demonstrate reduced off-target activity. Again, the effect of these changes on INDEL formation at target loci is assessed by SURVEYOR analysis as described above. Particularly preferred mutations with increased/enhanced on-target activity and reduced off-target activity compared to unmodified enzyme are selected. Analogous analyses are carried out in SpCas9.

Example 10—Analysis of SpCas9 Mutants (Multiple Target Sequences)

Three mutants, K855A (single mutation), and TM14 and TM15 (both triple mutants) were tested for INDEL formation with the target sequences EMX101, EMX1.1, EMX1.2, EMX1.3, EMX1.8, EMX1.10, DNMT1.1, DNMT1.2, DNMT1.4, DNMT1.7, VEGFA4, VEGFA5, and VEGFA3. As shown in FIG. 10, all three mutants showed activity against the target and low off-target activity against OT4.

An enlarged group of single, double, and triple mutants were tested for INDEL formation with the target sequences EMX101, EMX1.1, EMX1.2, EMX1.3, EMX1.8, EMX1.10, DNMT1.1, DNMT1.2, DNMT1.4, DNMT1.7, VEGFA4, VEGFA5, and VEGFA3. The mutants included E779L, R780A, K810A, K848A, K855A, R976A, H982A, DM11, DM17, DM19, DM20, DM23, DM24, DM25, DM35, DM40, TM14, TM15, and TM16. FIG. 11 summarizes activity against the target and off-target activity against OT4. Overall, there was a reduction of activity against almost all genomic off-targets assessed as well as against a comprehensive panel of mismatched guides.

Example 11—Analysis of SpCas9 Mutants (VEGFA3 Target and Off-Target Sequences)

Several mutant modified SpCas9 enzymes were generated and tested for INDEL formation with the target sequence being a sequence of the VEGFA3 gene. The modified SpCas9 enzymes tested in this Example included:

-   -   R780A     -   K848A     -   K1000A     -   K848A R1060A     -   R780A R1114A     -   H982A K1003A R1060A     -   R63A K848A R1060A     -   R63A K855A R1060A E610G     -   K1107A     -   T13I R63A K810A     -   R63A K855A     -   R63A H982A     -   G12D R63A R1060A     -   H415A K848A     -   H415A K848A     -   R780A R1114A     -   K848A K1107A     -   K848A E1108A     -   S1109A     -   R63A E610G K855A R1060A     -   R63A K848A R1060A

As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, several mutants showed a significant reduction of activity against one or more of three off-targets OT1, OT4, and OT18 compared to wild-type enzyme. Several mutants additionally showed a reduction of activity against all three off-targets compared to wild-type enzyme. These included:

-   -   R780A R1114A     -   H982A K1003AK1129E     -   R63A K855A R1060A E610G     -   K1107A     -   R63A K855A     -   R63A H982A     -   K848A K1107A     -   R63A E610G K855A R1060A     -   R63A K848A R1060A

Example 12—Analysis of SpCas9 Mutants (EMX1.3 Target and Off-Target Sequences)

Several mutant modified SpCas9 enzymes were tested for INDEL formation with the target sequence being a sequence of EMX1.3. The modified SpCas9 enzymes tested in this Example included:

-   -   N14K     -   E779L     -   E809K     -   L813R     -   S845K     -   L847R     -   D849A     -   D861K     -   E977K     -   1978K     -   N979L     -   N980K

As shown in FIG. 14, certain mutants showed high on-target activity, and among these, differences in specificity with respect to off-target sequences OT14, OT23, OT35, OT46, and OT53. Certain of the mutants demonstrated higher specificity than wild type, others demonstrated high activity against off-target sequences.

Example 13—Analysis of SpCas9 Mutants (EMX1.3 Target)

Several mutant modified SpCas9 enzymes were tested for INDEL formation with mismatched guides, the target sequence being a sequence of EMX1.3. Three modified SpCas9 enzymes tested in this Example included:

-   -   K855A     -   K810A, K1003A, R1060A     -   K848A, K1003A, R1060A         The results are shown in FIG. 15.

Example 14—Enhanced Cas9 Mutants have High Activity and Specificity

Six of the 29 point mutants reduced off-target activity by at least 10-fold compared to wild-type (WT) SpCas9 while maintaining on-target cleavage efficiency, and 6 others improved specificity 2 to 5-fold. These mutants also exhibited improved specificity when tested on a second locus, VEGFA(1) (FIG. 15D). Although some point mutants were more specific than WT SpCas9 when targeting EMX/(1) and VEGFA(1), off-target indels were still detectable (˜0.1%) (FIG. 15D). To further improve specificity, Applicants performed combinatorial mutagenesis using the top point mutants identified in the initial screen. Eight out of 35 combination mutants retained wild-type on-target activity and displayed undetectable off-target indel levels at EMX1(1) OT1, VEGFA(1) OT1, and VEGFA(2) OT2 (FIG. 15E). To ensure that the observed increased in specificity was not due to reduced on-target activity, Applicants measured on-target indel formation at 10 target loci using the top 16 mutants (FIG. 15F), as determined by a combination of on- and off-target activity. Applicants observed high efficiency and specificity for three mutants: SpCas9 (K855A), SpCas9 (K810A/K1003A/R1060A) (also referred to as eSpCas9(1.0)), and SpCas9 (K848A/K1003A/R1060A) (also referred to as eSpCas9(1.1)). These three variants were selected for further analysis.

To assess whether SpCas9 (K855A), eSpCas9(1.0), and eSpCas9(1.1) broadly retained efficient nuclease activity, Applicants measured on-target indel generation at 24 target sites spanning 10 different genomic loci (FIG. 16A). All three mutants generated similar indel levels as WT SpCas9 with the majority of target sites (FIG. 16B). To test whether improvements in specificity could be attributed to decreased Cas9 expression, Applicants performed a Western blot for SpCas9 and found that all three mutants were expressed equivalently or at higher levels than WT SpCas9 (FIG. 16C). This demonstrated that improvements in specificity were not due to decreased protein expression levels.

Applicants then compared the specificity of the three mutants to WT SpCas9 with truncated guide sequences (18 nt for EMX1(1) and 17 nt for VEGFA(1)), which have been shown to reduce off-target indel formation. All three mutants reduced cleavage at all off-target sites assessed. Moreover, eSpCas9(1.0) and eSpCas9(1.1) eliminated 20 of 24 of these sites. In contrast, WT SpCas9 with truncated guides eliminated 14 of 24 sites but also increased off-target activity at 5 sites compared to WT SpCas9 with full-length guides.

To assess tolerance of SpCas9 (K855A), eCas9(1.0), and eCas9(1.1) for mismatched target sites, Applicants systematically mutated the VEGFA(1) guide sequence to introduce single and double base mismatches at different positions (FIG. 17A-C). Compared to WT SpCas9, all three mutants induced lower levels of indels with mismatched guides. Of note, eSpCas9(1.0) and eSpCas9(1.1) induced lower indel levels even with single base mismatches located outside of the 7-12 bp seed sequence. Given that Applicants did not observe any difference between eSpCas9(1.0) and eSpCas9(1.1) in terms of specificity, SpCas9 (K855A) and eSpCas9(1.1) were selected for further analysis based on on-target efficiency.

Genome-wide editing specificity of SpCas9 (K855A) and eSpCas9(1.1) was assessed using BLESS (direct in situ breaks labelling, enrichment on streptavidin and next-generation sequencing, which quantifies DNA double-stranded breaks (DSBs) across the genome (FIG. 17A). Cells were harvested at approximately 24 h post-transfection, and BLESS was carried out. Briefly, a total of 10 million cells were fixed for nuclei isolation and permeabilization and then treated with Proteinase K for 4 min at 37° C. before inactivation with PMSF. Deproteinated nuclei DSBs were labeled with 200 mM of annealed proximal linkers overnight. After Proteinase K digestion of labeled nuclei, chromatin was mechanically sheared with a 26G needle before sonication (BioRuptor, 20 min on high, 50% duty cycle). A total of 20 μg of sheared chromatin was captured on streptavidin beads, washed, and ligated to 200 mM of distal linker. Linker hairpins were then cleaved off with I-SceI digestion for 4 h at 37° C., and products were PCR-enriched for 18 cycles before proceeding to library preparation with a TruSeq Nano LT Kit (Illumina). For the negative control, cells were mock transfected with Lipofectamine 2000 and pUC19 DNA and were parallel processed through the assay.

The calculation of the DSB score to separate the background DSBs from the bona fide Cas9-induced ones was done as previously described (Ran et al, Nature 2015), and sorting the loci on the DSB score revealed the top off-target sites as had been previously identified for these sgRNA targets. In order to provide additional detection capability beyond these top off-targets, we found from the previous Cas9-BLESS data that a homology-search algorithm could help further identify true Cas9-induced DSBs. The homology-search algorithm searched for the best matched guide sequence within a region of the genome 50 nt on either side of the median of a DSB cluster identified in BLESS for all NGG and NAG PAM sequences. A score based on the homology was calculated with the following weights: a match between the sgRNA and the genomic sequence scores +3, a mismatch is −1, while an insertion or deletion between the sgRNA and genomic sequence costs −5. Thereby, an on-target sequence with the full 20 bp guide+PAM would score 69. The final homology score for a DSB cluster was identified as the maximum of the scores from all possible sequences. Using these weights, we empirically found that bona fide off-targets (for which indels were identified on targeted deep sequencing) and background DSBs were separated fully when a threshold of >50 was used for the homology score. Using this homology criterion on the top 200 BLESS DSB loci allowed us to further identify off-targets from the background DSBs.

Applicants assayed the EMX1(1) and VEGFA(1) targets for both mutants and compared these results to WT SpCas9. (FIG. 17B). Both SpCas9(K855A) and eSpCas9(1.1) exhibited a genome-wide reduction in off-target cleavage and did not generate any new off-target sites (FIG. 17C-D).

Example 15—Mechanism of Cas9 Targeting and Nuclease Activity

Off-target cutting occurs when the strength of Cas9 binding to the non-target DNA strand exceeds forces of DNA re-hybridization. Consistent with this model, mutations designed to weaken interactions between Cas9 and the non-complementary DNA strand led to a substantial improvement in specificity. The model also suggests that, conversely, specificity can be decreased by strengthening the interactions between Cas9 and the non-target strand. Consistent with this model, two mutants were generated, S845K and L847R, each of which exhibited decreased specificity (FIG. 24).

Example 16—Specificity of Staphylococcus aureus Cas9 (SaCas9)

Similar strategies can also be applied to other Cas9 family proteins. An improved specificity version of Staphylococcus aureus Cas9 (SaCas9) was generated similarly to eSpCas9. Single and double amino acid mutants of residues in the groove between the RuvC and HNH domains were screened for decreased off-target cutting. Mutants with improved specificity were combined to make a variant of SaCas9 that maintained on-target cutting at EMX site 7 and had significantly reduced off-target cutting. (FIG. 25) The crystal structure of SaCas9 shows the groove between the HNH and RuvC domains mutated to engineer nucleases with improved specificity.

Example 17—Activation of HBG1

Complexes of spCas9 or spCas9 mutants with various guide RNAs were tested for activation of HBG1. FIG. 31 shows activation by complexes comprising Cas9 molecules with deficient nuclease activity (e.g., dCas9, R780A/K810A, and R780A/K855A; see also FIG. 4) or by complexes of nuclease competent Cas9s (e.g., unmutated spCas9 (px165), R780A, K810A, or K848A with shortened (i.e., “15 bp”) guide RNAs. Mutant R780A is notable in demonstrating activation with all three guides tested.

Example 18—Particle-Mediated Delivery of CRISPR-Cas9 Components into Hematopoietic Stem Cells (HSCs)

Applicants have demonstrated that Cas9 can be delivered to cells via particles. Many nucleic therapeutics may require the delivery of both the one or more sgRNA and the Cas9 nuclease concurrently. Accordingly, Applicants demonstrate the ability to deliver a complex of a modified Cas9 enzyme and sgRNA in this fashion.

A modified Cas9 enzyme is tested by co-delivery with one or more guide RNAs to cells via particles. An sgRNA targeting the EMX1 gene is mixed with eSpCas9(1.1) (K848A, K1003A, R1060A) at a 1:1 molar ratio at room temperature for 30 minutes in sterile, nuclease free 1×PBS. The control is the same sgRNA is mixed with SpCas9. Separately, DOTAP, DMPC, PEG, and cholesterol are dissolved in 100% ethanol. The two solutions are mixed together to form particles containing the Cas9-sgRNA complexes. After the particles are formed, HSCs in 96 well plates are transfected with 15 ug Cas9 protein per well. Three days after transfection, HSCs are harvested, and genome-wide editing specificity is assessed using BLESS and off-targets identified by a homology search algorithm. The number of on-target insertions and deletions (indels) at the EMX1 locus and indels at multiple off-target sites are quantified. eSpCas9(1.1) exhibits a genome-wide reduction in off-target cleavage and no new off-target sites.

Example 19: Particle-Mediated Delivery of CRISPR-Cas9 Components into Hematopoietic Stem Cells (HSCs) and Repair of HBB

Two sgRNAs targeting sequences on either side of the common GAG->GTG point mutation in the beta-globin (HBB) gene are mixed with eSpCas9(1.1) (K848A, K1003A, R1060A) at a 1:1 molar ratio of sgRNA to enzyme at room temperature for 30 minutes in sterile, nuclease free 1×PBS. The control is the same sgRNA is mixed with SpCas9. Separately, DOTAP, DMPC, PEG, and cholesterol are dissolved in 100% ethanol. The two solutions and a template nucleic acid for correcting the GAG->GTG point mutation are mixed together to form particles containing the Cas9-sgRNA complexes and template. After the particles are formed, HSCs in 96 well plates are transfected with 15 ug Cas9 protein per well. Three days after transfection, HSCs are harvested and tested for repair of the GAG->GTG point mutation. Corrected cells are then assessed for genome-wide editing specificity using BLESS and off-targets identified by a homology search algorithm. Indels at multiple off-target sites are quantified. eSpCas9(1.1) exhibits a genome-wide reduction in off-target cleavage and no new off-target sites.

Table of primers for mutation generation SpCas9 primer Sequence Name (SEQ ID NOS 72-215, respectively, in order of appearance) SPCAS9-N ATGGTCTCACCGGTGCCACCATGGACTATAAG K775A_F ATGGTCTCAGGCGAACAGCCGCGAGAGAATGAAGCGGAT R780A_F ATGGTCTCAGGCGATGAAGCGGATCGAAGAGGGCATCA Q807A_F ATGGTCTCAGGCGAACGAGAAGCTGTACCTGTACTACCTG K810A_F ATGGTCTCAGGCGCTGTACCTGTACTACCTGCAGAATGG R832A_F ATGGTCTCAGCCCTGTCCGACTACGATGTGGACCATATC K848A_F ATGGTCTCAGCCGACGACTCCATCGACAACAAGGTGCTGACC K855A_F ATGGTCTCAGCAGTGCTGACCAGAAGCGACAAGAACCGGG R859_F ATGGTCTCACGCAAGCGACAAGAACCGGGGCAAGAG K862_F ATGGTCTCACGCGAACCGGGGCAAGAGCGACAAC K866_F ATGGTCTCACGCGAGCGACAACGTGCCCTCCGAA K961_F ATGGTCTCAGCGCTGGTGTCCGATTTCCGGAAGGATTTC K968A_F ATGGTCTCAGCGGATTTCCAGTTTTACAAAGTGCGCGAGATCAACAAC K974A_F ATGGTCTCACGCAGTGCGCGAGATCAACAACTACCACCA R976A_F ATGGTCTCATGGCCGAGATCAACAACTACCACCACGCC H982A_F ATGGTCTCACGCCCACGCCCACGACGCCTAC H983A_F ATGGTCTCACGCCGCCCACGACGCCTACCTGAA K1014A_F ATGGTCTCAGCGGTGTACGACGTGCGGAAGATGATCG K1047A_F ATGGTCTCACGCGACCGAGATTACCCTGGCCAACG K1059A_F ATGGTCTCAGCGCGGCCTCTGATCGAGACAAACGG R1060A_F ATGGTCTCAGGCGCCTCTGATCGAGACAAACGGCG K1003A_F ATGGTCTCAGCGCTGGAAAGCGAGTTCGTGTACGGC H1240A_F ATGGTCTCACGCCTATGAGAAGCTGAAGGGCTCCCC K1244A_F ATGGTCTCAGGCGCTGAAGGGCTCCCCCGAG K1289A_F ATGGTCTCACGCAGTGCTGTCCGCCTACAACAAGCAC K1296A_F ATGGTCTCACGCGCACCGGGATAAGCCCATCAGAG H1297A_F ATGGTCTCAAGGCCCGGGATAAGCCCATCAGAGAGC R1298A_F ATGGTCTCAGCGGATAAGCCCATCAGAGAGCAGGCC K1300A_F ATGGTCTCAGCGCCCATCAGAGAGCAGGCCGAG R1303A_F ATGGTCTCACGCAGAGCAGGCCGAGAATATCATCCACC H1311A_F ATGGTCTCACGCCCTGTTTACCCTGACCAATCTGGGAG K1325A_F ATGGTCTCACGCGTACTTTGACACCACCATCGACCGG K1107A_F ATGGTCTCACGCCGAGTCTATCCTGCCCAAGAGGAACAG E1108A_F ATGGTCTCAAGCCTCTATCCTGCCCAAGAGGAACAGCGA S1109A_F ATGGTCTCAGGCCATCCTGCCCAAGAGGAACAGCGATAA ΔK1107_F ATGGTCTCACGAGTCTATCCTGCCCAAGAGGAACAGCGA Δ1108_F ATGGTCTCAATCTATCCTGCCCAAGAGGAACAGCGATAA ΔS1109_F ATGGTCTCAGATCCTGCCCAAGAGGAACAGCGATAAGCT KES_KG_F ATGGTCTCAAGGCATCCTGCCCAAGAGGAACAGCGATAA KES_GG_F ATGGTCTCACGGCATCCTGCCCAAGAGGAACAGCGATAA R778A_F ATGGTCTCACGCCGAGAGAATGAAGCGGATCGAAGAGGG K782A_F ATGGTCTCAGGCCCGGATCGAAGAGGGCATCAAAGAGCT R783A_F ATGGTCTCAGGCCATCGAAGAGGGCATCAAAGAGCTGGG K789A_F ATGGTCTCACGCCGAGCTGGGCAGCCAGATCCTGAAAGA K797A_F ATGGTCTCAGGCCGAACACCCCGTGGAAAACACCCAGCT K890A_F ATGGTCTCACGCCCTGATTACCCAGAGAAAGTTCGACAA R1114A_F ATGGTCTCAGGCCAACAGCGATAAGCTGATCGCCAGAAA K1118A_F ATGGTCTCATGCCCTGATCGCCAGAAAGAAGGACTGGGA K1200A_F ATGGTCTCATGCCTACTCCCTGTTCGAGCTGGAAAACGG R63A_F ATGGTCTCACGCCCTGAAGAGAACCGCCAGAAGAAGATA K163A_F ATGGTCTCACGCCTTCCGGGGCCACTTCCTGATCGAGGG R165A_F ATGGTCTCACGCCGGCCACTTCCTGATCGAGGGCGACCT R403A_F ATGGTCTCAGGCCACCTTCGACAACGGCAGCATCCCCCA H415A_F ATGGTCTCACGCCCTGGGAGAGCTGCACGCCATTCTGCG R447A_F ATGGTCTCACGCCATCCCCTACTACGTGGGCCCTCTGGC K1000A_F ATGGTCTCAAGCCTACCCTAAGCTGGAAAGCGAGTTCGT SPCAS9-C ATGGTCTCAAATTCTTACTTTTTCTTTTTTGCCTGGCC K775A_R ATGGTCTCACGCCTGTCCCTTCTGGGTGGTCTGG R780A_R ATGGTCTCACGCCTCGCGGCTGTTCTTCTGTCCT Q807A_R ATGGTCTCACGCCAGCTGGGTGTTTTCCACGGGG K810A_R ATGGTCTCACGCCTCGTTCTGCAGCTGGGTGTTTTCCA R832A_R ATGGTCTCAGGGCGTTGATGTCCAGTTCCTGGTCCAC K848A_R ATGGTCTCACGGCCAGAAAGCTCTGAGGCACGATATGGTCCAC K855A_R ATGGTCTCACTGCGTTGTCGATGGAGTCGTCCTTCAGAAAGCTCTG R859_R ATGGTCTCATGCGGTCAGCACCTTGTTGTCGATGGAGTC K862_R ATGGTCTCACGCGTCGCTTCTGGTCAGCACCTTGTTG K866_R ATGGTCTCACGCGCCCCGGTTCTTGTCGCTTCTG K961_R ATGGTCTCAGCGCGGACTTCAGGGTGATCACTTTCACTTC K968A_R ATGGTCTCACCGCCCGGAAATCGGACACCAGCTTG K974A_R ATGGTCTCATGCGTAAAACTGGAAATCCTTCCGGAAATCGGACAC R976A_R ATGGTCTCAGCCACTTTGTAAAACTGGAAATCCTTCCGGAAATCGG H982A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCGTAGTTGTTGATCTCGCGCACTTTGTAAAACTG H983A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCGTGGTAGTTGTTGATCTCGCGCACTTTG K1014A_R ATGGTCTCACCGCGTAGTCGCCGTACACGAACTCG K1047A_R ATGGTCTCACGCGAAAAAGTTCATGATGTTGCTGTAGAAGAAGTACTTGG K1059A_R ATGGTCTCAGCGCCCGGATCTCGCCGTTGGC R1060A_R ATGGTCTCACGCCTTCCGGATCTCGCCGTTGGC K1003A_R ATGGTCTCAGCGCAGGGTACTTTTTGATCAGGGCGGTTC H1240A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCGCTGGCCAGGTACAGGAAGTTCAC K1244A_R ATGGTCTCACGCCTCATAGTGGCTGGCCAGGTACAG K1289A_R ATGGTCTCATGCGTCCAGATTAGCGTCGGCCAGGATC K1296A_R ATGGTCTCACGCGTTGTAGGCGGACAGCACTTTGTCC H1297A_R ATGGTCTCAGCCTTGTTGTAGGCGGACAGCACTTTGTCC R1298A_R ATGGTCTCACCGCGTGCTTGTTGTAGGCGGACAGC K1300A_R ATGGTCTCAGCGCATCCCGGTGCTTGTTGTAGGCG R1303A_R ATGGTCTCATGCGATGGGCTTATCCCGGTGCTTGTTGTAG H1311A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCGATGATATTCTCGGCCTGCTCTCTGATG K1325A_R ATGGTCTCACGCGAAGGCGGCAGGGGCTCC K1107A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCGCTGAAGCCGCCTGTCTGCACCTCGGT E1108A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCTTTGCTGAAGCCGCCTGTCTGCACCTC S1109A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCCTCTTTGCTGAAGCCGCCTGTCTGCAC ΔK1107_R ATGGTCTCACTCGCTGAAGCCGCCTGTCTGCACCTCGGT ΔE1108_R ATGGTCTCAAGATTTGCTGAAGCCGCCTGTCTGCACCTC ΔS1109_R ATGGTCTCAGATCTCTTTGCTGAAGCCGCCTGTCTGCAC KES_KG_R ATGGTCTCAGCCTTTGCTGAAGCCGCCTGTCTGCACCTC KES_GG_R ATGGTCTCAGCCGCCGCTGAAGCCGCCTGTCTGCACCTC R778A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCGCTGTTCTTCTGTCCCTTCTGGGTGGT K782A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCCATTCTCTCGCGGCTGTTCTTCTGTCC R783A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCCTTCATTCTCTCGCGGCTGTTCTTCTG K789A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCGATGCCCTCTTCGATCCGCTTCATTCT K797A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCCAGGATCTGGCTGCCCAGCTCTTTGAT K890A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCGGCGTTCAGCAGCTGCCGCCAGTAGTT R1114A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCCTTGGGCAGGATAGACTCTTTGCTGAA K1118A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCATCGCTGTTCCTCTTGGGCAGGATAGA K1200A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCAGGCAGCTTGATGATCAGGTCCTTTTT R63A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCGGTGGCCTCGGCTGTTTCGCCGCTGTC K163A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCGATCATGTGGGCCAGGGCCAGATAGAT R165A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCGAACTTGATCATGTGGGCCAGGGCCAG R403A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCCTGCTTCCGCAGCAGGTCCTCTCTGTT H415A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCGATCTGGTGGGGGATGCTGCCGTTGTC R447A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCGAAGGTCAGGATCTTCTCGATCTTTTC K1000A_R ATGGTCTCAGGCTTTGATCAGGGCGGTTCCCACGACGGC SaCas9 primer name Sequence SACAS9-N ATGAAGACTACCGGTGCCACCATGGCCC K518A_F ATGAAGACTAGCGTACCTGATCGAGAAGATCAAGCTGCA K523A_F ATGAAGACTAGCGATCAAGCTGCACGACATGCAGGA K525A_F ATGAAGACTAGCGCTGCACGACATGCAGGAAGGC H557A_F ATGAAGACTAGCCATCATCCCCAGAAGCGTGTCCTTC R561A_F ATGAAGACTAGCAAGCGTGTCCTTCGACAACAGCTTC K572A_F ATGAAGACTAGCGGTGCTCGTGAAGCAGGAAGAAAACA R686A_F ATGAAGACTAGCGAAGTGGAAGTTTAAGAAAGAGCGGAACAA K692A_F ATGAAGACTAGCAGAGCGGAACAAGGGGTACAAGCAC R694A_F ATGAAGACTAGCGAACAAGGGGTACAAGCACCACGC H700A_F ATGAAGACTAGCCCACGCCGAGGACGCCCTGA K751A_F ATGAAGACTAGCAGAGATCTTCATCACCCCCCACCAG R497A_F ATGAAGACTAGCCAACCGGCAGACCAACGAGCG R499A; Q500K_F ATGAAGACTAGCAAAGACCAACGAGCGGATCGAGG R634A_F ATGAAGACTAGCGTTCTCCGTGCAGAAAGACTTCATCAAC R654A; G655R_F ATGAAGACTAGCCCGCCTGATGAACCTGCTGCGG SACAS9-C ATGAAGACTAAATTCTTAAGCGTAATCTGGAACATCGTATGG K518A_R ATGAAGACTAACGCGGCGTTCTCTTTGCCGGTGG K523A_R ATGAAGACTATCGCCTCGATCAGGTACTTGGCGTTCTCTT K525A_R ATGAAGACTAGCGCGATCTTCTCGATCAGGTACTTGGCGT H557A_R ATGAAGACTATGGCGTCCACCTCATAGTTGAAGGGGTTGT R561A_R ATGAAGACTATTGCGGGGATGATGTGGTCCACCTCATA K572A_R ATGAAGACTACCGCGTTGTTGAAGCTGTTGTCGAAGGACA R686A_R ATGAAGACTATCGCCCGCAGAAAGCTGGTGAAGCC K692A_R ATGAAGACTACTGCCTTAAACTTCCACTTCCGCCGCA R694A_R ATGAAGACTATCGCCTCTTTCTTAAACTTCCACTTCCGCC H700A_R ATGAAGACTAGGGCCTTGTACCCCTTGTTCCGCTCTTTC K751A_R ATGAAGACTACTGCGTACTCCTGCTCGGTTTCGATCTCG R497A_R ATGAAGACTATGGCCTTCTGCATCTCGTTGATCATTTTCTG R499A; Q500K_R ATGAAGACTATTGCGTTCCGCTTCTGCATCTCGTTGA R634A_R ATGAAGACTAACGCGTTGATGTCCCGTTCTTCCAGCA R654A; G655R_R ATGAAGACTAGGGCGGTGGCGTATCTGGTATCCACCA

BLESS DSB, similarity scores and genomic addresses sequence of homology (SEQ ID NOS 366-419, respectively, in order Similarity indel % indel % Target chr pos of appearance) DSB Score (rep 1) rep 2 WT  6 43737469 GGTGAGTGAGTGTGTGCGTG tGG 4.98 69 50.91527 52.06711 VEGFA(1) 22 37662823 GCTGAGTGAGTGTATGCGTG tGG 1.69 61 35.96793 35.45528  5 115434674 TGTGGGTGAGTGTGTGCGTG aGG 1.64 61 44.2025 40.92891  5 89440968 AGAGAGTGAGTGTGTGCATG aGG 1.51 58 no data no data 14 65569158 AGTGAGTGAGTGTGTGTGTG gGG 0.96 62 no data no data 14 106029030 GGTGAGTGAGTGTGTGTGTG aGG 0.55 65 30.58765 28.60646 11 68851137 GGTGAGTGAGTGCGTGCGGG tGG 0.35 61 24.67944 25.32837 20 20178283 AGTGTGTGAGTGTGTGCGTG tGG 0.33 62 20.58044 18.89512 14 62078772 TGTGAGTAAGTGTGTGTGTG tGG 0.28 58 15.0417 12.06293  2 177463424 GGTGAGTGTGTGTGTGCATG tGG 0.26 61 no data no data 10 98760587 GTTGAGTGAATGTGTGCGTG aGG 0.22 61 no data no data 19 6109031 GTGAGTGAGTGTGTGTGTGT gAG 0.20 56 no data no data 14 74353495 AGCGAGTGGGTGTGTGCGTG gGG 0.17 57  4.847261  4.450412 K855A  6 43737469 GGTGAGTGAGTGTGTGCGTG tGG 5.10 69 59.73475 59.31281 VEGFA(1) 22 37662823 GcTGAGTGAGTGTaTGCGTG tGG 0.68 61 14.72742 10.99476  5 115434674 TGTGGGTGAGTGTGTGCGTG aGG 0.51 61  6.332891  4.070328  5 89440968 AGAGAGTGAGTGTGTGCATG aGG 0 58 no data no data 14 65569158 AGTGAGTGAGTGTGTGTGTG gGG 0.81 62 no data no data 14 106029030 GGTGAGTGAGTGTGTGtGTG aGG 0.99 65 25.5206 22.61425 11 68851137 GGTGAGTGAGTGCGTGCGGG tGG 0.00 61  2.465958  1.979914 20 20178283 AGTGTGTGAGTGTGTGCGTG tGG 0.00 62  0.201052  0.31185 14 62078772 TGTGAGTAAGTGTGTGTGTG tGG 0.00 58  0.091587  0.050222  2 177463424 GGTGAGTGTGTGTGTGCATG tGG 0 61 no data no data 10 98760587 GTTGAGTGAATGTGTGCGTG aGG 0 61 no data no data 19 6109031 GTGAGTGAGTGTGTGTGTGT gAG 0 56 no data no data 14 74353495 AGCGAGTGGGTGTGTGCGTG gGG 0.00 57  0.134922  0.031095 eSpCas9  6 43737469 GGTGAGTGAGTGTGTGCGTG tGG 5.88 69 58.18434 59.37061 (1.1) 22 37662823 GCTGAGTGAGTGTATGCGTG tGG 0.00 61  0  0.126984 VEGFA(1)  5 115434674 TGTGGGTGAGTGTGTGCGTG aGG 0.00 61  0.05237  0.008734  5 89440968 AGAGAGTGAGTGTGTGCATG aGG 0 58 no data no data 14 65569158 AGTGAGTGAGTGTGTGTGTG gGG 0.91 62 no data no data 14 106029030 GGTGAGTGAGTGTGTGtGTG aGG 1.69 65 27.00054 25.11304 11 68851137 GGTGAGTGAGTGCGTGCGGG tGG 0.00 61  0.283437  0.410147 20 20178283 AGTGTGTGAGTGTGTGCGTG tGG 0.00 62  0.098756  0.085925 14 62078772 TGTGAGTAAGTGTGTGTGTG tGG 0.00 58  0  0  2 177463424 GGTGAGTGTGTGTGTGCATG tGG 0 61 no data no data 10 98760587 GTTGAGTGAATGTGTGCGTG aGG 0 61 no data no data 19 6109031 GTGAGTGAGTGTGTGTGTGT gAG 0 56 no data no data 14 74353495 AGCGAGTGGGTGTGTGCGTG gGG 0.00 57  0  0.043917 wt  2 73160997 GAGTCCGAGCAGAAGAAGAA gGG 6.13 69 63.55989 60.46006 SpCas9  5 45359066 GAGTTAGAGCAGAAGAAGAA aGG 1.43 61 52.11862 56.82947 EMX1(1) 15 44109762 GAGTCTAAGCAGAAGAAGAA gAG 0.84 61 30.18996 26.74923  5 9227161 AAGTCTGAGCACAAGAAGAA tGG 0.20 57  4.239055  4.661827  8 128801257 GAGTCCTAGCAGGAGAAGAA gAG 0.29 61  4.502949  5.209657  2 73160997 GAGTCCGAGCAGAAGAAGAA gGG 12.85 69 59.3004 56.47447  5 45359066 GAGTTAGAGCAGAAGAAGAA aGG 0.00 61  0.992973  1.310708 15 44109762 GAGTCTAAGCAGAAGAAGAA gAG 0.00 61  0.675676  1.228733  5 9227161 AAGTCTGAGCACAAGAAGAA tGG 0.00 57  0  0.114548  8 128801257 GAGTCCTAGCAGGAGAAGAA gAG 0.00 61  0.2032  0.347102  2 73160997 GAGTCCGAGCAGAAGAAGAA gGG 13.77 69 52.46614 49.36264  5 45359066 GAGTTAGAGCAGAAGAAGAA aGG 0.00 61  0.023535  0.030093 15 44109762 GAGTCTAAGCAGAAGAAGAA gAG 0.00 61  0.136705  0  5 9227161 AAGTCTGAGCACAAGAAGAA tGG 0.00 57  0  0.2376  8 128801257 GAGTCCTAGCAGGAGAAGAA gAG 0.00 61  0  0

Wild-type SpCas9 (SEQ ID NO: 420) ATGGCCCCAAAGAAGAAGCGGAAGGTCGGTATCCACGGAGTCCCAGCAGC CGACAAGAAGTACAGCATCGGCCTGGACATCGGCACCAACTCTGTGGGCT GGGCCGTGATCACCGACGAGTACAAGGTGCCCAGCAAGAAATTCAAGGTG CTGGGCAACACCGACCGGCACAGCATCAAGAAGAACCTGATCGGAGCCCT GCTGTTCGACAGCGGCGAAACAGCCGAGGCCACCCGGCTGAAGAGAACCG CCAGAAGAAGATACACCAGACGGAAGAACCGGATCTGCTATCTGCAAGAG ATCTTCAGCAACGAGATGGCCAAGGTGGACGACAGCTTCTTCCACAGACT GGAAGAGTCCTTCCTGGTGGAAGAGGATAAGAAGCACGAGCGGCACCCCA TCTTCGGCAACATCGTGGACGAGGTGGCCTACCACGAGAAGTACCCCACC ATCTACCACCTGAGAAAGAAACTGGTGGACAGCACCGACAAGGCCGACCT GCGGCTGATCTATCTGGCCCTGGCCCACATGATCAAGTTCCGGGGCCACT TCCTGATCGAGGGCGACCTGAACCCCGACAACAGCGACGTGGACAAGCTG TTCATCCAGCTGGTGCAGACCTACAACCAGCTGTTCGAGGAAAACCCCAT CAACGCCAGCGGCGTGGACGCCAAGGCCATCCTGTCTGCCAGACTGAGCA AGAGCAGACGGCTGGAAAATCTGATCGCCCAGCTGCCCGGCGAGAAGAAG AATGGCCTGTTCGGAAACCTGATTGCCCTGAGCCTGGGCCTGACCCCCAA CTTCAAGAGCAACTTCGACCTGGCCGAGGATGCCAAACTGCAGCTGAGCA AGGACACCTACGACGACGACCTGGACAACCTGCTGGCCCAGATCGGCGAC CAGTACGCCGACCTGTTTCTGGCCGCCAAGAACCTGTCCGACGCCATCCT GCTGAGCGACATCCTGAGAGTGAACACCGAGATCACCAAGGCCCCCCTGA GCGCCTCTATGATCAAGAGATACGACGAGCACCACCAGGACCTGACCCTG CTGAAAGCTCTCGTGCGGCAGCAGCTGCCTGAGAAGTACAAAGAGATTTT CTTCGACCAGAGCAAGAACGGCTACGCCGGCTACATTGACGGCGGAGCCA GCCAGGAAGAGTTCTACAAGTTCATCAAGCCCATCCTGGAAAAGATGGAC GGCACCGAGGAACTGCTCGTGAAGCTGAACAGAGAGGACCTGCTGCGGAA GCAGCGGACCTTCGACAACGGCAGCATCCCCCACCAGATCCACCTGGGAG AGCTGCACGCCATTCTGCGGCGGCAGGAAGATTTTTACCCATTCCTGAAG GACAACCGGGAAAAGATCGAGAAGATCCTGACCTTCCGCATCCCCTACTA CGTGGGCCCTCTGGCCAGGGGAAACAGCAGATTCGCCTGGATGACCAGAA AGAGCGAGGAAACCATCACCCCCTGGAACTTCGAGGAAGTGGTGGACAAG GGCGCTTCCGCCCAGAGCTTCATCGAGCGGATGACCAACTTCGATAAGAA CCTGCCCAACGAGAAGGTGCTGCCCAAGCACAGCCTGCTGTACGAGTACT TCACCGTGTATAACGAGCTGACCAAAGTGAAATACGTGACCGAGGGAATG AGAAAGCCCGCCTTCCTGAGCGGCGAGCAGAAAAAGGCCATCGTGGACCT GCTGTTCAAGACCAACCGGAAAGTGACCGTGAAGCAGCTGAAAGAGGACT ACTTCAAGAAAATCGAGTGCTTCGACTCCGTGGAAATCTCCGGCGTGGAA GATCGGTTCAACGCCTCCCTGGGCACATACCACGATCTGCTGAAAATTAT CAAGGACAAGGACTTCCTGGACAATGAGGAAAACGAGGACATTCTGGAAG ATATCGTGCTGACCCTGACACTGTTTGAGGACAGAGAGATGATCGAGGAA CGGCTGAAAACCTATGCCCACCTGTTCGACGACAAAGTGATGAAGCAGCT GAAGCGGCGGAGATACACCGGCTGGGGCAGGCTGAGCCGGAAGCTGATCA ACGGCATCCGGGACAAGCAGTCCGGCAAGACAATCCTGGATTTCCTGAAG TCCGACGGCTTCGCCAACAGAAACTTCATGCAGCTGATCCACGACGACAG CCTGACCTTTAAAGAGGACATCCAGAAAGCCCAGGTGTCCGGCCAGGGCG ATAGCCTGCACGAGCACATTGCCAATCTGGCCGGCAGCCCCGCCATTAAG AAGGGCATCCTGCAGACAGTGAAGGTGGTGGACGAGCTCGTGAAAGTGAT GGGCCGGCACAAGCCCGAGAACATCGTGATCGAAATGGCCAGAGAGAACC AGACCACCCAGAAGGGACAGAAGAACAGCCGCGAGAGAATGAAGCGGATC GAAGAGGGCATCAAAGAGCTGGGCAGCCAGATCCTGAAAGAACACCCCGT GGAAAACACCCAGCTGCAGAACGAGAAGCTGTACCTGTACTACCTGCAGA ATGGGCGGGATATGTACGTGGACCAGGAACTGGACATCAACCGGCTGTCC GACTACGATGTGGACCATATCGTGCCTCAGAGCTTTCTGAAGGACGACTC CATCGACAACAAGGTGCTGACCAGAAGCGACAAGAACCGGGGCAAGAGCG ACAACGTGCCCTCCGAAGAGGTCGTGAAGAAGATGAAGAACTACTGGCGG CAGCTGCTGAACGCCAAGCTGATTACCCAGAGAAAGTTCGACAATCTGAC CAAGGCCGAGAGAGGCGGCCTGAGCGAACTGGATAAGGCCGGCTTCATCA AGAGACAGCTGGTGGAAACCCGGCAGATCACAAAGCACGTGGCACAGATC CTGGACTCCCGGATGAACACTAAGTACGACGAGAATGACAAGCTGATCCG GGAAGTGAAAGTGATCACCCTGAAGTCCAAGCTGGTGTCCGATTTCCGGA AGGATTTCCAGTTTTACAAAGTGCGCGAGATCAACAACTACCACCACGCC CACGACGCCTACCTGAACGCCGTCGTGGGAACCGCCCTGATCAAAAAGTA CCCTAAGCTGGAAAGCGAGTTCGTGTACGGCGACTACAAGGTGTACGACG TGCGGAAGATGATCGCCAAGAGCGAGCAGGAAATCGGCAAGGCTACCGCC AAGTACTTCTTCTACAGCAACATCATGAACTTTTTCAAGACCGAGATTAC CCTGGCCAACGGCGAGATCCGGAAGCGGCCTCTGATCGAGACAAACGGCG AAACCGGGGAGATCGTGTGGGATAAGGGCCGGGATTTTGCCACCGTGCGG AAAGTGCTGAGCATGCCCCAAGTGAATATCGTGAAAAAGACCGAGGTGCA GACAGGCGGCTTCAGCAAAGAGTCTATCCTGCCCAAGAGGAACAGCGATA AGCTGATCGCCAGAAAGAAGGACTGGGACCCTAAGAAGTACGGCGGCTTC GACAGCCCCACCGTGGCCTATTCTGTGCTGGTGGTGGCCAAAGTGGAAAA GGGCAAGTCCAAGAAACTGAAGAGTGTGAAAGAGCTGCTGGGGATCACCA TCATGGAAAGAAGCAGCTTCGAGAAGAATCCCATCGACTTTCTGGAAGCC AAGGGCTACAAAGAAGTGAAAAAGGACCTGATCATCAAGCTGCCTAAGTA CTCCCTGTTCGAGCTGGAAAACGGCCGGAAGAGAATGCTGGCCTCTGCCG GCGAACTGCAGAAGGGAAACGAACTGGCCCTGCCCTCCAAATATGTGAAC TTCCTGTACCTGGCCAGCCACTATGAGAAGCTGAAGGGCTCCCCCGAGGA TAATGAGCAGAAACAGCTGTTTGTGGAACAGCACAAGCACTACCTGGACG AGATCATCGAGCAGATCAGCGAGTTCTCCAAGAGAGTGATCCTGGCCGAC GCTAATCTGGACAAAGTGCTGTCCGCCTACAACAAGCACCGGGATAAGCC CATCAGAGAGCAGGCCGAGAATATCATCCACCTGTTTACCCTGACCAATC TGGGAGCCCCTGCCGCCTTCAAGTACTTTGACACCACCATCGACCGGAAG AGGTACACCAGCACCAAAGAGGTGCTGGACGCCACCCTGATCCACCAGAG CATCACCGGCCTGTACGAGACACGGATCGACCTGTCTCAGCTGGGAGGCG ACAAAAGGCCGGCGGCCACGAAAAAGGCCGGCCAGGCAAAAAAGAAAAAG TAA >K855A (SEQ ID NO: 421) ATGGACTATAAGGACCACGACGGAGACTACAAGGATCATGATATTGATTA CAAAGACGATGACGATAAGATGGCCCCAAAGAAGAAGCGGAAGGTCGGTA TCCACGGAGTCCCAGCAGCCGACAAGAAGTACAGCATCGGCCTGGACATC GGCACCAACTCTGTGGGCTGGGCCGTGATCACCGACGAGTACAAGGTGCC CAGCAAGAAATTCAAGGTGCTGGGCAACACCGACCGGCACAGCATCAAGA AGAACCTGATCGGAGCCCTGCTGTTCGACAGCGGCGAAACAGCCGAGGCC ACCCGGCTGAAGAGAACCGCCAGAAGAAGATACACCAGACGGAAGAACCG GATCTGCTATCTGCAAGAGATCTTCAGCAACGAGATGGCCAAGGTGGACG ACAGCTTCTTCCACAGACTGGAAGAGTCCTTCCTGGTGGAAGAGGATAAG AAGCACGAGCGGCACCCCATCTTCGGCAACATCGTGGACGAGGTGGCCTA CCACGAGAAGTACCCCACCATCTACCACCTGAGAAAGAAACTGGTGGACA GCACCGACAAGGCCGACCTGCGGCTGATCTATCTGGCCCTGGCCCACATG ATCAAGTTCCGGGGCCACTTCCTGATCGAGGGCGACCTGAACCCCGACAA CAGCGACGTGGACAAGCTGTTCATCCAGCTGGTGCAGACCTACAACCAGC TGTTCGAGGAAAACCCCATCAACGCCAGCGGCGTGGACGCCAAGGCCATC CTGTCTGCCAGACTGAGCAAGAGCAGACGGCTGGAAAATCTGATCGCCCA GCTGCCCGGCGAGAAGAAGAATGGCCTGTTCGGAAACCTGATTGCCCTGA GCCTGGGCCTGACCCCCAACTTCAAGAGCAACTTCGACCTGGCCGAGGAT GCCAAACTGCAGCTGAGCAAGGACACCTACGACGACGACCTGGACAACCT GCTGGCCCAGATCGGCGACCAGTACGCCGACCTGTTTCTGGCCGCCAAGA ACCTGTCCGACGCCATCCTGCTGAGCGACATCCTGAGAGTGAACACCGAG ATCACCAAGGCCCCCCTGAGCGCCTCTATGATCAAGAGATACGACGAGCA CCACCAGGACCTGACCCTGCTGAAAGCTCTCGTGCGGCAGCAGCTGCCTG AGAAGTACAAAGAGATTTTCTTCGACCAGAGCAAGAACGGCTACGCCGGC TACATTGACGGCGGAGCCAGCCAGGAAGAGTTCTACAAGTTCATCAAGCC CATCCTGGAAAAGATGGACGGCACCGAGGAACTGCTCGTGAAGCTGAACA GAGAGGACCTGCTGCGGAAGCAGCGGACCTTCGACAACGGCAGCATCCCC CACCAGATCCACCTGGGAGAGCTGCACGCCATTCTGCGGCGGCAGGAAGA TTTTTACCCATTCCTGAAGGACAACCGGGAAAAGATCGAGAAGATCCTGA CCTTCCGCATCCCCTACTACGTGGGCCCTCTGGCCAGGGGAAACAGCAGA TTCGCCTGGATGACCAGAAAGAGCGAGGAAACCATCACCCCCTGGAACTT CGAGGAAGTGGTGGACAAGGGCGCTTCCGCCCAGAGCTTCATCGAGCGGA TGACCAACTTCGATAAGAACCTGCCCAACGAGAAGGTGCTGCCCAAGCAC AGCCTGCTGTACGAGTACTTCACCGTGTATAACGAGCTGACCAAAGTGAA ATACGTGACCGAGGGAATGAGAAAGCCCGCCTTCCTGAGCGGCGAGCAGA AAAAGGCCATCGTGGACCTGCTGTTCAAGACCAACCGGAAAGTGACCGTG AAGCAGCTGAAAGAGGACTACTTCAAGAAAATCGAGTGCTTCGACTCCGT GGAAATCTCCGGCGTGGAAGATCGGTTCAACGCCTCCCTGGGCACATACC ACGATCTGCTGAAAATTATCAAGGACAAGGACTTCCTGGACAATGAGGAA AACGAGGACATTCTGGAAGATATCGTGCTGACCCTGACACTGTTTGAGGA CAGAGAGATGATCGAGGAACGGCTGAAAACCTATGCCCACCTGTTCGACG ACAAAGTGATGAAGCAGCTGAAGCGGCGGAGATACACCGGCTGGGGCAGG CTGAGCCGGAAGCTGATCAACGGCATCCGGGACAAGCAGTCCGGCAAGAC AATCCTGGATTTCCTGAAGTCCGACGGCTTCGCCAACAGAAACTTCATGC AGCTGATCCACGACGACAGCCTGACCTTTAAAGAGGACATCCAGAAAGCC CAGGTGTCCGGCCAGGGCGATAGCCTGCACGAGCACATTGCCAATCTGGC CGGCAGCCCCGCCATTAAGAAGGGCATCCTGCAGACAGTGAAGGTGGTGG ACGAGCTCGTGAAAGTGATGGGCCGGCACAAGCCCGAGAACATCGTGATC GAAATGGCCAGAGAGAACCAGACCACCCAGAAGGGACAGAAGAACAGCCG CGAGAGAATGAAGCGGATCGAAGAGGGCATCAAAGAGCTGGGCAGCCAGA TCCTGAAAGAACACCCCGTGGAAAACACCCAGCTGCAGAACGAGAAGCTG TACCTGTACTACCTGCAGAATGGGCGGGATATGTACGTGGACCAGGAACT GGACATCAACCGGCTGTCCGACTACGATGTGGACCATATCGTGCCTCAGA GCTTTCTGAAGGACGACTCCATCGACAAC GC GGTGCTGACCAGAAGCGAC AAGAACCGGGGCAAGAGCGACAACGTGCCCTCCGAAGAGGTCGTGAAGAA GATGAAGAACTACTGGCGGCAGCTGCTGAACGCCAAGCTGATTACCCAGA GAAAGTTCGACAATCTGACCAAGGCCGAGAGAGGCGGCCTGAGCGAACTG GATAAGGCCGGCTTCATCAAGAGACAGCTGGTGGAAACCCGGCAGATCAC AAAGCACGTGGCACAGATCCTGGACTCCCGGATGAACACTAAGTACGACG AGAATGACAAGCTGATCCGGGAAGTGAAAGTGATCACCCTGAAGTCCAAG CTGGTGTCCGATTTCCGGAAGGATTTCCAGTTTTACAAAGTGCGCGAGAT CAACAACTACCACCACGCCCACGACGCCTACCTGAACGCCGTCGTGGGAA CCGCCCTGATCAAAAAGTACCCTAAGCTGGAAAGCGAGTTCGTGTACGGC GACTACAAGGTGTACGACGTGCGGAAGATGATCGCCAAGAGCGAGCAGGA AATCGGCAAGGCTACCGCCAAGTACTTCTTCTACAGCAACATCATGAACT TTTTCAAGACCGAGATTACCCTGGCCAACGGCGAGATCCGGAAGCGGCCT CTGATCGAGACAAACGGCGAAACCGGGGAGATCGTGTGGGATAAGGGCCG GGATTTTGCCACCGTGCGGAAAGTGCTGAGCATGCCCCAAGTGAATATCG TGAAAAAGACCGAGGTGCAGACAGGCGGCTTCAGCAAAGAGTCTATCCTG CCCAAGAGGAACAGCGATAAGCTGATCGCCAGAAAGAAGGACTGGGACCC TAAGAAGTACGGCGGCTTCGACAGCCCCACCGTGGCCTATTCTGTGCTGG TGGTGGCCAAAGTGGAAAAGGGCAAGTCCAAGAAACTGAAGAGTGTGAAA GAGCTGCTGGGGATCACCATCATGGAAAGAAGCAGCTTCGAGAAGAATCC CATCGACTTTCTGGAAGCCAAGGGCTACAAAGAAGTGAAAAAGGACCTGA TCATCAAGCTGCCTAAGTACTCCCTGTTCGAGCTGGAAAACGGCCGGAAG AGAATGCTGGCCTCTGCCGGCGAACTGCAGAAGGGAAACGAACTGGCCCT GCCCTCCAAATATGTGAACTTCCTGTACCTGGCCAGCCACTATGAGAAGC TGAAGGGCTCCCCCGAGGATAATGAGCAGAAACAGCTGTTTGTGGAACAG CACAAGCACTACCTGGACGAGATCATCGAGCAGATCAGCGAGTTCTCCAA GAGAGTGATCCTGGCCGACGCTAATCTGGACAAAGTGCTGTCCGCCTACA ACAAGCACCGGGATAAGCCCATCAGAGAGCAGGCCGAGAATATCATCCAC CTGTTTACCCTGACCAATCTGGGAGCCCCTGCCGCCTTCAAGTACTTTGA CACCACCATCGACCGGAAGAGGTACACCAGCACCAAAGAGGTGCTGGACG CCACCCTGATCCACCAGAGCATCACCGGCCTGTACGAGACACGGATCGAC CTGTCTCAGCTGGGAGGCGACAAAAGGCCGGCGGCCACGAAAAAGGCCGG CCAGGCAAAAAAGAAAAAGTAA eSpCas9(1.0) (SEQ ID NO: 422) ATGGACTATAAGGACCACGACGGAGACTACAAGGATCATGATATTGATTA CAAAGACGATGACGATAAGATGGCCCCAAAGAAGAAGCGGAAGGTCGGTA TCCACGGAGTCCCAGCAGCCGACAAGAAGTACAGCATCGGCCTGGACATC GGCACCAACTCTGTGGGCTGGGCCGTGATCACCGACGAGTACAAGGTGCC CAGCAAGAAATTCAAGGTGCTGGGCAACACCGACCGGCACAGCATCAAGA AGAACCTGATCGGAGCCCTGCTGTTCGACAGCGGCGAAACAGCCGAGGCC ACCCGGCTGAAGAGAACCGCCAGAAGAAGATACACCAGACGGAAGAACCG GATCTGCTATCTGCAAGAGATCTTCAGCAACGAGATGGCCAAGGTGGACG ACAGCTTCTTCCACAGACTGGAAGAGTCCTTCCTGGTGGAAGAGGATAAG AAGCACGAGCGGCACCCCATCTTCGGCAACATCGTGGACGAGGTGGCCTA CCACGAGAAGTACCCCACCATCTACCACCTGAGAAAGAAACTGGTGGACA GCACCGACAAGGCCGACCTGCGGCTGATCTATCTGGCCCTGGCCCACATG ATCAAGTTCCGGGGCCACTTCCTGATCGAGGGCGACCTGAACCCCGACAA CAGCGACGTGGACAAGCTGTTCATCCAGCTGGTGCAGACCTACAACCAGC TGTTCGAGGAAAACCCCATCAACGCCAGCGGCGTGGACGCCAAGGCCATC CTGTCTGCCAGACTGAGCAAGAGCAGACGGCTGGAAAATCTGATCGCCCA GCTGCCCGGCGAGAAGAAGAATGGCCTGTTCGGAAACCTGATTGCCCTGA GCCTGGGCCTGACCCCCAACTTCAAGAGCAACTTCGACCTGGCCGAGGAT GCCAAACTGCAGCTGAGCAAGGACACCTACGACGACGACCTGGACAACCT GCTGGCCCAGATCGGCGACCAGTACGCCGACCTGTTTCTGGCCGCCAAGA ACCTGTCCGACGCCATCCTGCTGAGCGACATCCTGAGAGTGAACACCGAG ATCACCAAGGCCCCCCTGAGCGCCTCTATGATCAAGAGATACGACGAGCA CCACCAGGACCTGACCCTGCTGAAAGCTCTCGTGCGGCAGCAGCTGCCTG AGAAGTACAAAGAGATTTTCTTCGACCAGAGCAAGAACGGCTACGCCGGC TACATTGACGGCGGAGCCAGCCAGGAAGAGTTCTACAAGTTCATCAAGCC CATCCTGGAAAAGATGGACGGCACCGAGGAACTGCTCGTGAAGCTGAACA GAGAGGACCTGCTGCGGAAGCAGCGGACCTTCGACAACGGCAGCATCCCC CACCAGATCCACCTGGGAGAGCTGCACGCCATTCTGCGGCGGCAGGAAGA TTTTTACCCATTCCTGAAGGACAACCGGGAAAAGATCGAGAAGATCCTGA CCTTCCGCATCCCCTACTACGTGGGCCCTCTGGCCAGGGGAAACAGCAGA TTCGCCTGGATGACCAGAAAGAGCGAGGAAACCATCACCCCCTGGAACTT CGAGGAAGTGGTGGACAAGGGCGCTTCCGCCCAGAGCTTCATCGAGCGGA TGACCAACTTCGATAAGAACCTGCCCAACGAGAAGGTGCTGCCCAAGCAC AGCCTGCTGTACGAGTACTTCACCGTGTATAACGAGCTGACCAAAGTGAA ATACGTGACCGAGGGAATGAGAAAGCCCGCCTTCCTGAGCGGCGAGCAGA AAAAGGCCATCGTGGACCTGCTGTTCAAGACCAACCGGAAAGTGACCGTG AAGCAGCTGAAAGAGGACTACTTCAAGAAAATCGAGTGCTTCGACTCCGT GGAAATCTCCGGCGTGGAAGATCGGTTCAACGCCTCCCTGGGCACATACC ACGATCTGCTGAAAATTATCAAGGACAAGGACTTCCTGGACAATGAGGAA AACGAGGACATTCTGGAAGATATCGTGCTGACCCTGACACTGTTTGAGGA CAGAGAGATGATCGAGGAACGGCTGAAAACCTATGCCCACCTGTTCGACG ACAAAGTGATGAAGCAGCTGAAGCGGCGGAGATACACCGGCTGGGGCAGG CTGAGCCGGAAGCTGATCAACGGCATCCGGGACAAGCAGTCCGGCAAGAC AATCCTGGATTTCCTGAAGTCCGACGGCTTCGCCAACAGAAACTTCATGC AGCTGATCCACGACGACAGCCTGACCTTTAAAGAGGACATCCAGAAAGCC CAGGTGTCCGGCCAGGGCGATAGCCTGCACGAGCACATTGCCAATCTGGC CGGCAGCCCCGCCATTAAGAAGGGCATCCTGCAGACAGTGAAGGTGGTGG ACGAGCTCGTGAAAGTGATGGGCCGGCACAAGCCCGAGAACATCGTGATC GAAATGGCCAGAGAGAACCAGACCACCCAGAAGGGACAGAAGAACAGCCG CGAGAGAATGAAGCGGATCGAAGAGGGCATCAAAGAGCTGGGCAGCCAGA TCCTGAAAGAACACCCCGTGGAAAACACCCAGCTGCAGAACGAG GCC CTG TACCTGTACTACCTGCAGAATGGGCGGGATATGTACGTGGACCAGGAACT GGACATCAACCGGCTGTCCGACTACGATGTGGACCATATCGTGCCTCAGA GCTTTCTGAAGGACGACTCCATCGACAACAAGGTGCTGACCAGAAGCGAC AAGAACCGGGGCAAGAGCGACAACGTGCCCTCCGAAGAGGTCGTGAAGAA GATGAAGAACTACTGGCGGCAGCTGCTGAACGCCAAGCTGATTACCCAGA GAAAGTTCGACAATCTGACCAAGGCCGAGAGAGGCGGCCTGAGCGAACTG GATAAGGCCGGCTTCATCAAGAGACAGCTGGTGGAAACCCGGCAGATCAC AAAGCACGTGGCACAGATCCTGGACTCCCGGATGAACACTAAGTACGACG AGAATGACAAGCTGATCCGGGAAGTGAAAGTGATCACCCTGAAGTCCAAG CTGGTGTCCGATTTCCGGAAGGATTTCCAGTTTTACAAAGTGCGCGAGAT CAACAACTACCACCACGCCCACGACGCCTACCTGAACGCCGTCGTGGGAA CCGCCCTGATCAAAAAGTACCCT GC GCTGGAAAGCGAGTTCGTGTACGGC GACTACAAGGTGTACGACGTGCGGAAGATGATCGCCAAGAGCGAGCAGGA AATCGGCAAGGCTACCGCCAAGTACTTCTTCTACAGCAACATCATGAACT TTTTCAAGACCGAGATTACCCTGGCCAACGGCGAGATCCGGAAG GC GCCT CTGATCGAGACAAACGGCGAAACCGGGGAGATCGTGTGGGATAAGGGCCG GGATTTTGCCACCGTGCGGAAAGTGCTGAGCATGCCCCAAGTGAATATCG TGAAAAAGACCGAGGTGCAGACAGGCGGCTTCAGCAAAGAGTCTATCCTG CCCAAGAGGAACAGCGATAAGCTGATCGCCAGAAAGAAGGACTGGGACCC TAAGAAGTACGGCGGCTTCGACAGCCCCACCGTGGCCTATTCTGTGCTGG TGGTGGCCAAAGTGGAAAAGGGCAAGTCCAAGAAACTGAAGAGTGTGAAA GAGCTGCTGGGGATCACCATCATGGAAAGAAGCAGCTTCGAGAAGAATCC CATCGACTTTCTGGAAGCCAAGGGCTACAAAGAAGTGAAAAAGGACCTGA TCATCAAGCTGCCTAAGTACTCCCTGTTCGAGCTGGAAAACGGCCGGAAG AGAATGCTGGCCTCTGCCGGCGAACTGCAGAAGGGAAACGAACTGGCCCT GCCCTCCAAATATGTGAACTTCCTGTACCTGGCCAGCCACTATGAGAAGC TGAAGGGCTCCCCCGAGGATAATGAGCAGAAACAGCTGTTTGTGGAACAG CACAAGCACTACCTGGACGAGATCATCGAGCAGATCAGCGAGTTCTCCAA GAGAGTGATCCTGGCCGACGCTAATCTGGACAAAGTGCTGTCCGCCTACA ACAAGCACCGGGATAAGCCCATCAGAGAGCAGGCCGAGAATATCATCCAC CTGTTTACCCTGACCAATCTGGGAGCCCCTGCCGCCTTCAAGTACTTTGA CACCACCATCGACCGGAAGAGGTACACCAGCACCAAAGAGGTGCTGGACG CCACCCTGATCCACCAGAGCATCACCGGCCTGTACGAGACACGGATCGAC CTGTCTCAGCTGGGAGGCGACAAAAGGCCGGCGGCCACGAAAAAGGCCGG CCAGGCAAAAAAGAAAAAG eSpCas9(1.1) (SEQ ID NO: 423) ATGGACTATAAGGACCACGACGGAGACTACAAGGATCATGATATTGATTA CAAAGACGATGACGATAAGATGGCCCCAAAGAAGAAGCGGAAGGTCGGTA TCCACGGAGTCCCAGCAGCCGACAAGAAGTACAGCATCGGCCTGGACATC GGCACCAACTCTGTGGGCTGGGCCGTGATCACCGACGAGTACAAGGTGCC CAGCAAGAAATTCAAGGTGCTGGGCAACACCGACCGGCACAGCATCAAGA AGAACCTGATCGGAGCCCTGCTGTTCGACAGCGGCGAAACAGCCGAGGCC ACCCGGCTGAAGAGAACCGCCAGAAGAAGATACACCAGACGGAAGAACCG GATCTGCTATCTGCAAGAGATCTTCAGCAACGAGATGGCCAAGGTGGACG ACAGCTTCTTCCACAGACTGGAAGAGTCCTTCCTGGTGGAAGAGGATAAG AAGCACGAGCGGCACCCCATCTTCGGCAACATCGTGGACGAGGTGGCCTA CCACGAGAAGTACCCCACCATCTACCACCTGAGAAAGAAACTGGTGGACA GCACCGACAAGGCCGACCTGCGGCTGATCTATCTGGCCCTGGCCCACATG ATCAAGTTCCGGGGCCACTTCCTGATCGAGGGCGACCTGAACCCCGACAA CAGCGACGTGGACAAGCTGTTCATCCAGCTGGTGCAGACCTACAACCAGC TGTTCGAGGAAAACCCCATCAACGCCAGCGGCGTGGACGCCAAGGCCATC CTGTCTGCCAGACTGAGCAAGAGCAGACGGCTGGAAAATCTGATCGCCCA GCTGCCCGGCGAGAAGAAGAATGGCCTGTTCGGAAACCTGATTGCCCTGA GCCTGGGCCTGACCCCCAACTTCAAGAGCAACTTCGACCTGGCCGAGGAT GCCAAACTGCAGCTGAGCAAGGACACCTACGACGACGACCTGGACAACCT GCTGGCCCAGATCGGCGACCAGTACGCCGACCTGTTTCTGGCCGCCAAGA ACCTGTCCGACGCCATCCTGCTGAGCGACATCCTGAGAGTGAACACCGAG ATCACCAAGGCCCCCCTGAGCGCCTCTATGATCAAGAGATACGACGAGCA CCACCAGGACCTGACCCTGCTGAAAGCTCTCGTGCGGCAGCAGCTGCCTG AGAAGTACAAAGAGATTTTCTTCGACCAGAGCAAGAACGGCTACGCCGGC TACATTGACGGCGGAGCCAGCCAGGAAGAGTTCTACAAGTTCATCAAGCC CATCCTGGAAAAGATGGACGGCACCGAGGAACTGCTCGTGAAGCTGAACA GAGAGGACCTGCTGCGGAAGCAGCGGACCTTCGACAACGGCAGCATCCCC CACCAGATCCACCTGGGAGAGCTGCACGCCATTCTGCGGCGGCAGGAAGA TTTTTACCCATTCCTGAAGGACAACCGGGAAAAGATCGAGAAGATCCTGA CCTTCCGCATCCCCTACTACGTGGGCCCTCTGGCCAGGGGAAACAGCAGA TTCGCCTGGATGACCAGAAAGAGCGAGGAAACCATCACCCCCTGGAACTT CGAGGAAGTGGTGGACAAGGGCGCTTCCGCCCAGAGCTTCATCGAGCGGA TGACCAACTTCGATAAGAACCTGCCCAACGAGAAGGTGCTGCCCAAGCAC AGCCTGCTGTACGAGTACTTCACCGTGTATAACGAGCTGACCAAAGTGAA ATACGTGACCGAGGGAATGAGAAAGCCCGCCTTCCTGAGCGGCGAGCAGA AAAAGGCCATCGTGGACCTGCTGTTCAAGACCAACCGGAAAGTGACCGTG AAGCAGCTGAAAGAGGACTACTTCAAGAAAATCGAGTGCTTCGACTCCGT GGAAATCTCCGGCGTGGAAGATCGGTTCAACGCCTCCCTGGGCACATACC ACGATCTGCTGAAAATTATCAAGGACAAGGACTTCCTGGACAATGAGGAA AACGAGGACATTCTGGAAGATATCGTGCTGACCCTGACACTGTTTGAGGA CAGAGAGATGATCGAGGAACGGCTGAAAACCTATGCCCACCTGTTCGACG ACAAAGTGATGAAGCAGCTGAAGCGGCGGAGATACACCGGCTGGGGCAGG CTGAGCCGGAAGCTGATCAACGGCATCCGGGACAAGCAGTCCGGCAAGAC AATCCTGGATTTCCTGAAGTCCGACGGCTTCGCCAACAGAAACTTCATGC AGCTGATCCACGACGACAGCCTGACCTTTAAAGAGGACATCCAGAAAGCC CAGGTGTCCGGCCAGGGCGATAGCCTGCACGAGCACATTGCCAATCTGGC CGGCAGCCCCGCCATTAAGAAGGGCATCCTGCAGACAGTGAAGGTGGTGG ACGAGCTCGTGAAAGTGATGGGCCGGCACAAGCCCGAGAACATCGTGATC GAAATGGCCAGAGAGAACCAGACCACCCAGAAGGGACAGAAGAACAGCCG CGAGAGAATGAAGCGGATCGAAGAGGGCATCAAAGAGCTGGGCAGCCAGA TCCTGAAAGAACACCCCGTGGAAAACACCCAGCTGCAGAACGAGAAGCTG TACCTGTACTACCTGCAGAATGGGCGGGATATGTACGTGGACCAGGAACT GGACATCAACCGGCTGTCCGACTACGATGTGGACCATATCGTGCCTCAGA GCTTTCTG GC GGACGACTCCATCGACAACAAGGTGCTGACCAGAAGCGAC AAGAACCGGGGCAAGAGCGACAACGTGCCCTCCGAAGAGGTCGTGAAGAA GATGAAGAACTACTGGCGGCAGCTGCTGAACGCCAAGCTGATTACCCAGA GAAAGTTCGACAATCTGACCAAGGCCGAGAGAGGCGGCCTGAGCGAACTG GATAAGGCCGGCTTCATCAAGAGACAGCTGGTGGAAACCCGGCAGATCAC AAAGCACGTGGCACAGATCCTGGACTCCCGGATGAACACTAAGTACGACG AGAATGACAAGCTGATCCGGGAAGTGAAAGTGATCACCCTGAAGTCCAAG CTGGTGTCCGATTTCCGGAAGGATTTCCAGTTTTACAAAGTGCGCGAGAT CAACAACTACCACCACGCCCACGACGCCTACCTGAACGCCGTCGTGGGAA CCGCCCTGATCAAAAAGTACCCT GC GCTGGAAAGCGAGTTCGTGTACGGC GACTACAAGGTGTACGACGTGCGGAAGATGATCGCCAAGAGCGAGCAGGA AATCGGCAAGGCTACCGCCAAGTACTTCTTCTACAGCAACATCATGAACT TTTTCAAGACCGAGATTACCCTGGCCAACGGCGAGATCCGGAAG GC GCCT CTGATCGAGACAAACGGCGAAACCGGGGAGATCGTGTGGGATAAGGGCCG GGATTTTGCCACCGTGCGGAAAGTGCTGAGCATGCCCCAAGTGAATATCG TGAAAAAGACCGAGGTGCAGACAGGCGGCTTCAGCAAAGAGTCTATCCTG CCCAAGAGGAACAGCGATAAGCTGATCGCCAGAAAGAAGGACTGGGACCC TAAGAAGTACGGCGGCTTCGACAGCCCCACCGTGGCCTATTCTGTGCTGG TGGTGGCCAAAGTGGAAAAGGGCAAGTCCAAGAAACTGAAGAGTGTGAAA GAGCTGCTGGGGATCACCATCATGGAAAGAAGCAGCTTCGAGAAGAATCC CATCGACTTTCTGGAAGCCAAGGGCTACAAAGAAGTGAAAAAGGACCTGA TCATCAAGCTGCCTAAGTACTCCCTGTTCGAGCTGGAAAACGGCCGGAAG AGAATGCTGGCCTCTGCCGGCGAACTGCAGAAGGGAAACGAACTGGCCCT GCCCTCCAAATATGTGAACTTCCTGTACCTGGCCAGCCACTATGAGAAGC TGAAGGGCTCCCCCGAGGATAATGAGCAGAAACAGCTGTTTGTGGAACAG CACAAGCACTACCTGGACGAGATCATCGAGCAGATCAGCGAGTTCTCCAA GAGAGTGATCCTGGCCGACGCTAATCTGGACAAAGTGCTGTCCGCCTACA ACAAGCACCGGGATAAGCCCATCAGAGAGCAGGCCGAGAATATCATCCAC CTGTTTACCCTGACCAATCTGGGAGCCCCTGCCGCCTTCAAGTACTTTGA CACCACCATCGACCGGAAGAGGTACACCAGCACCAAAGAGGTGCTGGACG CCACCCTGATCCACCAGAGCATCACCGGCCTGTACGAGACACGGATCGAC CTGTCTCAGCTGGGAGGCGACAAAAGGCCGGCGGCCACGAAAAAGGCCGG CCAGGCAAAAAAGAAAAAGTAA

The invention is further described by the following numbered paragraphs:

1. An engineered CRISPR protein, wherein:

the protein complexes with a nucleic acid molecule comprising RNA to form a CRISPR complex,

wherein when in the CRISPR complex, the nucleic acid molecule targets one or more target polynucleotide loci

the protein comprises at least one modification compared to the unmodified protein,

wherein the CRISPR complex comprising the modified protein has altered activity as compared to the complex comprising the unmodified protein.

2. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 1, wherein the altered activity comprises altered binding property as to the nucleic acid molecule comprising RNA or the target polynucleotide loci, altered binding kinetics as to the nucleic acid molecule comprising RNA or the target polynucleotide loci, or altered binding specificity as to the nucleic acid molecule comprising RNA or the target polynucleotide loci compared to off-target polynucleotide loci.

3. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 1 or 2, wherein the altered activity comprises increased targeting efficiency or decreased off-target binding.

4. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 1 to 3, wherein the altered activity comprises modified cleavage activity.

5. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 4, wherein the modified cleavage activity comprises increased cleavage activity as to the target polynucleotide loci.

6. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 4, wherein the modified cleavage activity comprises decreased cleavage activity as to the target polynucleotide loci.

7. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 4 to 6, wherein the modified cleavage activity comprises decreased cleavage activity as to off-target polynucleotide loci.

8. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 4 to 6, wherein the modified cleavage activity comprises increased cleavage activity as to off-target polynucleotide loci.

9. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of the preceding numbered paragraphs wherein the altered activity comprises altered helicase kinetics.

10. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of the preceding numbered paragraphs wherein the modified CRISPR protein comprises a modification that alters association of the protein with the nucleic acid molecule comprising RNA, or a strand of the target polynucleotide loci, or a strand of off-target polynucleotide loci.

11. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of the preceding numbered paragraphs wherein the modified CRISPR protein comprises a modification that alters formation of the CRISPR complex.

12. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of the preceding numbered paragraphs wherein the modified CRISPR protein comprises a modification that alters targeting of the nucleic acid molecule to the polynucleotide loci.

13. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 10 to 12, wherein the modification comprises a mutation in a region of the protein that associates with the nucleic acid molecule.

14. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 10 to 12, wherein the modification comprises a mutation in a region of the protein that associates with a strand of the target polynucleotide loci.

15. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 10 to 12, wherein the modification comprises a mutation in a region of the protein that associates with a strand of the off-target polynucleotide loci.

16. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 10 to 15, wherein the modification or mutation comprises decreased positive charge in a region of the protein that associates with the nucleic acid molecule comprising RNA, or a strand of the target polynucleotide loci, or a strand of off-target polynucleotide loci.

17. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 10 to 15, wherein the modification or mutation comprises decreased negative charge in a region of the protein that associates with the nucleic acid molecule comprising RNA, or a strand of the target polynucleotide loci, or a strand of off-target polynucleotide loci.

18. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 10 to 15, wherein the modification or mutation comprises increased positive charge in a region of the protein that associates with the nucleic acid molecule comprising RNA, or a strand of the target polynucleotide loci, or a strand of off-target polynucleotide loci.

19. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 10 to 15, wherein the modification or mutation comprises increased negative charge in a region of the protein that associates with the nucleic acid molecule comprising RNA, or a strand of the target polynucleotide loci, or a strand of off-target polynucleotide loci.

20. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 10 to 19,

-   -   wherein the modification or mutation increases steric hindrance         between the protein and the nucleic acid molecule comprising         RNA, or a strand of the target polynucleotide loci, or a strand         of off-target polynucleotide loci.

21. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 10 to 19, wherein the modification or mutation comprises a substitution of Lys, His, Arg, Glu, Asp, Ser, Gly, or Thr.

22. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 10 to 19, wherein the modification or mutation comprises a substitution with Gly, Ala, Ile, Glu, or Asp.

23. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 10 to 19, wherein the modification or mutation comprises an amino acid substitution in a binding groove.

24. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 10 to 19, wherein the binding groove is between the RuvC and HNH domains.

25. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 10 to 19, wherein the modification or mutation comprises a mutation in a RuvCI, RuvCIII, RuvCIII or HNH domain.

26. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 10 to 19, wherein the modification or mutation comprises an amino acid substitution at one or more of positions 12, 13, 63, 415, 610, 775, 779, 780, 810, 832, 848, 855, 861, 862, 866, 961, 968, 974, 976, 982, 983, 1000, 1003, 1014, 1047, 1060, 1107, 1108, 1109, 1114, 1129, 1240, 1289, 1296, 1297, 1300, 1311, and 1325 with reference to amino acid position numbering of SpCas9.

27. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 26, wherein the modification or mutation at position 63, 415, 775, 779, 780, 810, 832, 848, 855, 861, 862, 866, 961, 968, 974, 976, 982, 983, 1000, 1003, 1014, 1047, 1060, 1107, 1108, 1109, 1114, 1129, 1240, 1289, 1296, 1297, 1300, 1311, or 1325 comprises an alanine substitution.

28. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 26, wherein the modification or mutation at position 12 comprises an aspartic acid substitution.

29. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 26, wherein the modification or mutation at position 13 comprises an isoleucine substitution.

30. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 26, wherein the modification or mutation at position 610 comprises a glycine substitution.

31. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 26, wherein the modification or mutation at position 799 comprises a leucine substitution.

32. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 26, wherein the modification or mutation at position 1129 comprises a glutamic acid substitution.

33. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 26, wherein the modification or mutation comprises K775A, E779L, Q807A, R780A, K810A, R832A, K848A, K855A, K862A, K961A, K968A, K974A, R976A, H983A, K1000A, K1014A, K1047A, K1060A, K1003A, S1109A, H1240A, K1289A, K1296A, H1297A, K1300A, H1311A, or K1325A.

34. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 26, wherein the modification or mutation comprises R783A and A1322T, or R780A and K810A, or R780A and K855A, or R780A and R976A, or K848A and R976A, or K855A and R976A, or R780A and K848A, or K810A and K848A, or K848A and K855A, or K810A and K855A, or H982A and R1060A, or H982A and R1003A, or K1003A and R1060A, or R780A and H982A, or K810A and H982A, or K848A and H982A, or K855A and H982A, or R780A and K1003A, or K810A and R1003A, or K848A and K1003A, or K848A and K1007A, or R780A and R1060A, or K810A and R1060A, or K848A and R1060A, or R780A and R1114A, or K848A and R1114A, or R63A and K855A, or R63A and H982A, or H415A and R780A, or H415A and K848A, or K848A and E1108A, or K810A and K1003A, or R780A and R1060A, or K810A and R1060A, or K848A and R1060A.

35. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 26, wherein the modification or mutation comprises H982A, K1003A, and K1129E, or R780A, K1003A, and R1060A, or K810A, K1003A, and R1060A, or K848A, K1003A, and R1060A, or K855A, K1003A, and R1060A, or H982A, K1003A, and R1060A, or R63A, K848A, and R1060A, or T131, R63A, and K810A, or G12D, R63A, and R1060A.

36. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 26, wherein the modification or mutation comprises R63A, E610G, K855A, and R1060A, or R63A, K855A, R1060A, and E610G.

37. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of the preceding numbered paragraphs, wherein the protein comprises a Type II CRISPR protein.

38. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of the preceding numbered paragraphs, wherein the CRISPR protein comprises a CRISPR protein from an organism from a genus comprising Streptococcus, Campylobacter, Nitratifractor, Staphylococcus, Parvibaculum, Roseburia, Neisseria, Gluconacetobacter, Azospirillum, Sphaerochaeta, Lactobacillus, Eubacterium or Corynebacter.

39. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of the preceding numbered paragraphs, wherein the protein comprises a Cas9 protein.

40. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of the preceding numbered paragraphs, wherein the CRISPR protein comprises a chimeric Cas9 protein comprising a first fragment from a first Cas9 ortholog and a second fragment from a second Cas9 ortholog, and the first and second Cas9 orthologs are different.

41. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 40, wherein at least one of the first and second Cas9 orthologs comprises a Cas9 from an organism comprising Streptococcus, Campylobacter, Nitratifractor, Staphylococcus, Parvibaculum, Roseburia, Neisseria, Gluconacetobacter, Azospirillum, Sphaerochaeta, Lactobacillus, Eubacterium or Corynebacter.

42. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of the preceding numbered paragraphs, wherein the CRISPR protein comprises one or more nuclear localization signal (NLS) domains.

43. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of the preceding numbered paragraphs, wherein the CRISPR protein comprises at least two or more NLSs.

44. The engineered CRISPR protein of any one of the preceding numbered paragraphs, wherein the CRISPR protein comprises one or more heterologous functional domains.

45. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 44, wherein the one or more heterologous functional domains comprises one or more transcriptional activation domains.

46. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 45, wherein the transcriptional activation domain comprises VP64.

47. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 44, wherein the one or more heterologous functional domains comprises one or more transcriptional repression domains.

48. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 47, wherein the transcriptional repression domain comprises a KRAB domain or a SID domain.

49. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 44, wherein the one or more heterologous functional domains comprises one or more nuclease domains.

50. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 49, wherein a nuclease domain comprises Fok1.

51. The engineered CRISPR protein of numbered paragraph 44, wherein the one or more heterologous functional domains have one or more of the following activities: methylase activity, demethylase activity, transcription activation activity, transcription repression activity, transcription release factor activity, histone modification activity, nuclease activity, single-strand RNA cleavage activity, double-strand RNA cleavage activity, single-strand DNA cleavage activity, double-strand DNA cleavage activity and nucleic acid binding activity.

52. An engineered CRISPR protein according to any one of the preceding numbered paragraphs, wherein the CRISPR protein is encoded by a nucleotide sequence which is codon optimized for expression in a eukaryote.

53. A composition comprising the engineered CRISPR protein of any one of the preceding numbered paragraphs.

54. A system comprising the engineered CRISPR protein of any one of the preceding numbered paragraphs and a nucleic acid molecule comprising RNA.

55. A vector system comprising one or more vectors, wherein the one or more vectors comprises:

a) a first regulatory element operably linked to a nucleotide sequence encoding the engineered CRISPR protein of any one of the preceding numbered paragraphs; and b) a second regulatory element operably linked to one or more nucleotide sequences encoding one or more nucleic acid molecules comprising a guide RNA comprising a guide sequence, a tracr sequence, and a tracr mate sequence, wherein components (a) and (b) are located on same or different vectors.

56. An isolated eukaryotic cell comprising the system of numbered paragraph 54 or 55.

57. A method of modulating gene expression, wherein the method comprises introducing the engineered CRISPR protein or system of any one of the preceding numbered paragraphs into a cell.

58. The method of numbered paragraph 59, wherein the cell is a eukaryotic or a prokaryotic cell.

59. The method of numbered paragraph 59, wherein the method is ex vivo or in vitro.

60. A method of treating a disease, disorder or infection in an individual in need thereof comprising administering an effective amount of the engineered CRISPR protein or composition of any one of the preceding numbered paragraphs.

61. A method of altering the expression of a genomic locus of interest in a mammalian cell comprising

-   -   contacting the cell with the composition of any of numbered         paragraphs 1-55 and thereby delivering the vector and allowing         the CRISPR-Cas complex to form and bind to target, and     -   determining if the expression of the genomic locus has been         altered.

62. The method of numbered paragraph 61, which comprises genomic DNA cleavage resulting in decreased transcription of a gene.

63. The method of numbered paragraph 61, wherein altering expression comprises genome editing.

64. The method of numbered paragraph 61, wherein altering expression comprises increasing expression of a gene product.

65. The method of numbered paragraph 61, wherein altering expression comprises modification of a gene product.

66. An isolated cell having altered expression of a genomic locus from the method of any one of numbered paragraph 61-65, wherein the altered expression is in comparison with a cell that has not been subjected to the method of altering the expression of the genomic locus.

67. An isolated cell line from the cell of numbered paragraph 66.

68. A method of modifying a target locus of interest, the method comprising delivering to said locus a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition comprising a Cas9 protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 1 to 52, and one or more nucleic acid components, wherein the Cas9 protein forms a complex with the one or more nucleic acid components and upon binding of the complex to a target locus of interest, the Cas9 protein induces a modification of the target locus of interest.

69. The method of numbered paragraph 68, wherein the target locus of interest is within a cell.

70. The method of numbered paragraph 69, wherein the cell is a eukaryotic cell.

71. The method of numbered paragraph 69, wherein the cell is an animal or human cell.

72. The method of numbered paragraph 69, wherein the cell is a plant cell.

73. The method of numbered paragraph 68, wherein the target locus of interest is comprised in a DNA molecule in vitro.

74. The method of any one of numbered paragraphs 68-73, wherein said non-naturally occurring or engineered composition comprising a Cas9 protein and one or more nucleic acid components is delivered to the cell as one or more polynucleotide molecules.

75. The method of any one of numbered paragraphs 68-73, wherein Cas9 protein comprises one or more nuclear localization signal(s) (NLS(s)).

76. The method of any one of numbered paragraphs 74-75, wherein the one or more polynucleotide molecules are comprised within one or more vectors.

77. The method of any one of numbered paragraphs 74-76, wherein the one or more polynucleotide molecules comprise one or more regulatory elements operably configured to express the Cas9 protein and/or the nucleic acid component(s), optionally wherein the one or more regulatory elements comprise inducible promoters.

78. The method of any one of numbered paragraphs 74-77 wherein the one or more polynucleotide molecules or the one or more vectors are comprised in a delivery system.

79. The method of any one of numbered paragraphs 74-78, wherein the system or the one or more polynucleotide molecules are delivered via particles, vesicles, or one or more viral vectors.

80. The method of numbered paragraph 79 wherein the particles comprise a lipid, a sugar, a metal or a protein.

81. The method of numbered paragraph 79 wherein the vesicles comprise exosomes or liposomes.

82. The method of numbered paragraph 79 wherein the one or more viral vectors comprise one or more of adenovirus, one or more lentivirus or one or more adeno-associated virus.

83. The method of any one of numbered paragraphs 68-79, which is a method of modifying a cell, a cell line or an organism by manipulation of one or more target sequences at genomic loci of interest.

84. A cell from the method of numbered paragraph 83, or progeny thereof, wherein the cell comprises a modification not present in a cell not subjected to the method.

85. The cell of numbered paragraph 84, of progeny thereof, wherein the cell not subjected to the method comprises an abnormality and the cell from the method has the abnormality addressed or corrected.

86. A cell product from the cell or progeny thereof of numbered paragraph 84, wherein the product is modified in nature or quantity with respect to a cell product from a cell not subjected to the method.

87. The cell product of numbered paragraph 86, wherein the cell not subjected to the method comprises an abnormality and the cell product reflects the abnormality having been addressed or corrected by the method.

88. An in vitro, ex vivo or in vivo host cell or cell line or progeny thereof comprising a system comprising a Cas9 protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 1 to 52, and one or more nucleic acid components, wherein the Cas9 protein forms a complex with the one or more nucleic acid components and upon binding of the complex to a target locus of interest, the Cas9 protein induces a modification of the target locus of interest.

89. The host cell or cell line or progeny thereof according to numbered paragraph 88, wherein the cell is a eukaryotic cell.

90. The host cell or cell line or progeny thereof according to numbered paragraph 89, wherein the cell is an animal cell.

91. The host cell or cell line or progeny thereof according to numbered paragraph 89, wherein the cell is a human cell.

92. The host cell, cell line or progeny thereof according to numbered paragraph 89, comprising a stem cell or stem cell line.

93. The host cell or cell line or progeny thereof according to numbered paragraph 89, wherein the cell is a plant cell.

94. A method of producing a plant, having a modified trait of interest encoded by a gene of interest, said method comprising contacting a plant cell with a system according to any one of numbered paragraphs 54-55 or subjecting the plant cell to a method according to numbered paragraph 68-83, thereby either modifying or introducing said gene of interest, and regenerating a plant from said plant cell.

95. A method of identifying a trait of interest in a plant, said trait of interest encoded by a gene of interest, said method comprising contacting a plant cell with a system according to any one of numbered paragraphs 54-55 or subjecting the plant cell to a method according to numbered paragraph 68-83, thereby identifying said gene of interest.

96. The method of numbered paragraphs 95, further comprising introducing the identified gene of interest into a plant cell or plant cell line or plant germplasm and generating a plant therefrom, whereby the plant contains the gene of interest.

97. The method of numbered paragraph 96 wherein the plant exhibits the trait of interest.

98. A particle comprising a system according to any one of numbered paragraphs 54-55.

99. The particle of numbered paragraph 98, wherein the particle comprises the Cas9 protein of any one of numbered paragraphs 1-52 protein complexed with the guide RNA.

100. The particle of numbered paragraph 98, wherein the particle comprises eSpCas9(1.1) complexed with the guide RNA.

101. The complex, nucleic acid molecule comprising RNA, or protein of numbered paragraph 1, wherein the complex, nucleic acid molecule comprising RNA or protein is conjugated to at least one sugar moiety, optionally N-acetyl galactosamine (GalNAc), in particular triantennary GalNAc.

102. The complex, nucleic acid component or protein of numbered paragraph 68, wherein the complex, nucleic acid component or protein is conjugated to at least one sugar moiety, optionally N-acetyl galactosamine (GalNAc), in particular triantennary GalNAc.

103. A method of improving the specificity of a CRISPR system by providing an engineered CRISPR protein having modification according to any one of numbered paragraphs 1-36.

104. Use of an engineered CRISPR protein to improve the specificity of a CRISPR system, wherein the CRISPR protein is modified according to any one of numbered paragraphs 1-36.

Having thus described in detail preferred embodiments of the present invention, it is to be understood that the invention defined by the above paragraphs is not to be limited to particular details set forth in the above description as many apparent variations thereof are possible without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An engineered CRISPR protein comprising two or more modifications in a groove between HNH and RuvC domains with reference to Cas9, wherein the modifications comprise substituting at least two positively charged residues with uncharged residues.
 2. The engineered CRISPR protein of claim 1, wherein the engineered CRISPR protein is Cas9.
 3. The engineered CRISPR protein of claim 1, wherein the uncharged residues comprise alanine.
 4. The engineered CRISPR protein of claim 1, wherein the modifications alter binding kinetics at DNA:RNA:protein interface or change in energy state for proper RNA:DNA pairing.
 5. The engineered CRISPR protein of claim 1, wherein the modifications comprise an amino acid substitution at position 780, 810, 848, 855, 976, 982, 1003, or 1060 with reference to amino acid position numbering of S. pyogenes Cas9 (SpCas9).
 6. The engineered CRISPR protein of claim 1, wherein the modifications comprise amino acid substitutions, with reference to numbering of SpCas9: or R780A and K810A, or R780A and K855A, or R780A and R976A, or K848A and R976A, or K855A and R976A, or R780A and K848A, or K810A and K848A, or K848A and K855A, or K810A and K855A, or H982A and R1060A, or H982A and R1003A, or K1003A and R1060A, or R780A and H982A, or K810A and H982A, or K848A and H982A, or K855A and H982A, or R780A and K1003A, or K810A and R1003A, or K848A and K1003A, or R780A and R1060A, or K810A and R1060A, or K848A and R1060A, or K848A and E1108A, or K810A and K1003A, or R780A and R1060A, or K810A and R1060A, or K848A and R1060A.
 7. The engineered CRISPR protein of claim 1, wherein modifications comprise amino acid substitutions, with reference to numbering of SpCas9: H982A, K1003A, and K1129E; or R780A, K1003A, and R1060A; or K810A, K1003A, and R1060A; or K848A, K1003A, and R1060A; or K855A, K1003A, and R1060A; or H982A, K1003A, and R1060A.
 8. The engineered CRISPR protein of claim 1, wherein the modifications comprise, with reference to the amino acid numbering of SpCas9: K848A, K1003A, and R1060A.
 9. The engineered CRISPR protein of claim 1, wherein the protein comprises a Cas9 protein from an organism from a genus comprising Streptococcus, Campylobacter, Nitratifractor, Staphylococcus, Parvibaculum, Roseburia, Neisseria, Gluconacetobacter, Azospirillum, Sphaerochaeta, Lactobacillus, Eubacterium or Corynebacter.
 10. The engineered CRISPR protein of claim 1, wherein the protein comprises one or more nuclear localization signal (NLS).
 11. The engineered CRISPR protein of claim 1, wherein the protein comprises at least two or more NLSs.
 12. The engineered CRISPR protein of claim 1, wherein the protein comprises three or more modifications.
 13. A CRISPR-Cas complex, comprising the engineered CRISPR protein of claim 1 and a guide polynucleotide.
 14. The CRISPR-Cas complex of claim 13, wherein the guide polynucleotide comprises a guide sequence, a tracr mate sequence, and a tracr sequence.
 15. The CRISPR-Cas complex of claim 14, wherein the guide polynucleotide is a chimeric guide polynucleotide in which the tracr mater sequence is linked to the tracr sequence.
 16. A method of modulating gene expression or modifying a target sequence in a cell or cell line, comprising introducing the CRISPR-Cas complex of claim 13 into the cell or cell line.
 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising culturing the modified cell or cell to produce progeny.
 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the cell or cell line is a eukaryotic cell or cell line.
 19. The method of claim 16, wherein the CRISPR-Cas complex is introduced into the cell or cell line ex vivo.
 20. A method of producing a plant having a modified trait of interest encoded by a gene of interest, comprising delivery to a plant cell of the CRISPR-Cas complex of claim 13, whereby the gene of interest is either modified or introduced into the cell and a modified plant cell is obtained, and regenerating the plant from the modified plant cell.
 21. The method of claim 20, further comprising obtaining seed from the plant.
 22. A method of modifying a non-human organism by manipulation of one or more target sequences, comprising delivering to the organism the CRISPR-Cas complex of claim 13, thereby obtaining a modified non-human organism.
 23. A method according to claim 22, wherein the non-human organism is a plant or algae.
 24. A method according to claim 22, wherein the non-human organism is an animal.
 25. A method for treating a disease or disorder selected from the group consisting of a blood or coagulation disease or disorder, a cell dysregulation or oncology disease or disorder, an inflammation or immune related disease or disorder, a metabolic, liver, kidney or protein disease or disorder, a muscular or skeletal disease or disorder, a neurological or neuronal disease or disorder, or an ocular disease or disorder, comprising delivering to a subject in need thereof the CRISPR-Cas complex of claim
 13. 